JD(U) Leader Mohammed Qasim Ansari Quits Over Waqf Bill, Calls Party’s Stand a ‘Betrayal’
Senior Janata Dal (United) leader Mohammed Qasim Ansari has resigned from the party, expressing his strong opposition to JD(U)’s support for the Waqf Amendment Bill.
Patna: Senior Janata Dal (United) leader Mohammed Qasim Ansari has resigned from the party, expressing his strong opposition to JD(U)’s support for the Waqf Amendment Bill. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha late at night, with JD(U), a key ally of the NDA, backing it despite widespread criticism.
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Resignation Letter Expresses Disappointment in Nitish Kumar
In a letter addressed to JD(U) president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Ansari voiced deep disappointment over the party’s stance. He stated that JD(U)’s decision had shattered the trust of millions of Indian Muslims who considered the party a guardian of secular values.
“Millions of Indian Muslims had unwavering faith in you as a flag bearer of secularism. However, that belief has now been shattered. The JD(U)’s stand on the Waqf Bill Amendment Act 2024 has deeply shocked Indian Muslims and activists,” Ansari wrote.
Calls Waqf Bill ‘Anti-Muslim’ and Discriminatory
Ansari strongly criticized JD(U) leader Lalan Singh’s remarks in the Lok Sabha, calling the bill a violation of constitutional rights. He described it as discriminatory towards the Pasmanda Muslim community and accused the party leadership of failing to recognize its implications.
“The Waqf Bill is against Indian Muslims and violates fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution. It humiliates the community and discriminates against the Pasmanda Muslims,” he said in his resignation letter.
Ends Long Association with JD(U)
Expressing regret over his years of association with JD(U), Ansari announced that he was stepping down from the party’s primary membership and relinquishing all official responsibilities.
“I regret dedicating so many years of my life to the party. Since JD(U) has failed to protect the interests of the Muslim community, I am voluntarily resigning from all my positions,” he added.
Growing Dissent Over JD(U)’s Support for the Bill
Ansari’s resignation comes amid growing dissatisfaction within sections of JD(U) over its support for the Waqf Amendment Bill. Many political observers believe this could impact JD(U)’s standing among Muslim voters in Bihar ahead of upcoming elections.
