JDU-TDP’s ‘Secular’ Mask Slips? Support for BJP’s Waqf Bill Sparks Controversy
Two parties that often project themselves as secular—Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) (JDU) and Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP)—voted in favor of the Bill, aligning with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
New Delhi: The Lok Sabha on Wednesday night passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, with significant support from unexpected quarters.
Table of Contents
Two parties that often project themselves as secular—Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) (JDU) and Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP)—voted in favor of the Bill, aligning with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
JDU and TDP Stand with BJP on the Bill
Despite their past positioning as defenders of secularism, both JDU and TDP threw their weight behind the controversial Bill. All their MPs voted in favor, signaling a clear alignment with the BJP on this legislative move. This has sparked criticism, particularly from sections that see this as a betrayal of minority interests.
Political Fallout in Bihar?
With Bihar set to go to assembly elections later this year, this move by Nitish Kumar’s JDU may have electoral consequences. The party’s decision to side with the BJP on the Waqf Bill could become a significant talking point in the upcoming political battles, especially among minority voters.
The question now arises: will JDU and TDP continue their secular positioning, or does this vote mark a deeper realignment with the BJP? Political observers suggest that the coming months will reveal whether this was a one-time move or a signal of shifting alliances ahead of the 2024 elections.
