JAMMU: Sh. Kavinder Gupta, senior BJP leader and former Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has come out strongly in support of the Waqf Amendment Bill, calling it a landmark move to bring transparency and inclusivity into the functioning of Waqf Boards. He accused opposition parties of spreading misinformation and politicizing the bill for their own agenda.

In a statement issued today, Gupta emphasized that the Waqf Amendment Bill is not about interfering with religious practices, as some critics have claimed, but about ensuring accountability and efficiency in the management of Waqf properties. He described the bill as a “beacon of commitment” by the Modi government to instill good governance within Waqf institutions, which have historically been marred by inefficiency and corruption.

“The accusations suggesting that this Bill seeks to interfere with religious practices are utterly baseless. The sole intention of the Modi Government is to establish a framework where transparency and accountability are paramount,” Gupta stated, dismissing fears that the bill encroaches on religious freedoms.

Gupta highlighted the bill’s proposed inclusion of Muslim women and non-Muslims in Waqf Boards as a groundbreaking step towards gender equality and inclusivity. He argued that this reflects the government’s dedication to creating a more just and equitable society. “Introducing representation for Muslim women and non-Muslims within Waqf Boards is a historic move that underscores the Modi Government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive governance structure,” he remarked.

The former Deputy Chief Minister also took aim at opposition parties for their attempts to create fear and division over the bill. He accused them of engaging in communal rhetoric and misleading the public for political gain. “It is disheartening to witness certain opposition factions resorting to fear-mongering and communal rhetoric. Their efforts to mislead the public are transparent ploys to create division where none exists,” Gupta asserted.

Gupta further noted that the Wakf Act has been amended multiple times since independence, each time with the objective of improving governance. He argued that the current amendments are part of this ongoing process of refinement aimed at better governance of Waqf properties. “This is not an unprecedented move; the Wakf Act has been amended several times since independence, always with the objective of enhancing the efficiency and transparency of Waqf Boards,” he added.

In conclusion, Gupta urged all stakeholders to support the Waqf Amendment Bill and ensure its successful implementation. He called on responsible citizens to unite behind the bill, which he described as a “decisive step towards strengthening the fabric of our society.”

This analysis provides a detailed overview of Kavinder Gupta’s endorsement of the Waqf Amendment Bill, his criticism of the opposition’s stance, and his emphasis on the bill’s potential to bring transparency, inclusivity, and good governance to Waqf Boards.