New Delhi, April 2 — Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday accused the opposition of spreading fear over the Waqf Amendment Bill, asserting that claims of interference in Muslim religious matters were politically motivated.
Addressing the Lok Sabha, Shah said, “That the Waqf Bill interferes in Muslims’ religious matters and properties donated by them is fear-mongering for vote-bank politics.” He argued that misconceptions—either genuine or politically driven—were being amplified to mislead the public.
Countering opposition concerns, Shah clarified, “No non-Islamic member will be part of Waqf. There is neither any provision for the appointment of a non-Muslim to manage religious institutions, nor do we intend to introduce one.” He dismissed claims that the Bill sought to interfere with religious practices or Waqf properties, calling it an attempt to intimidate minorities.
The Bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha, has sparked debate, with the opposition alleging it could alter Waqf management structures.
