Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Apr 10: National Conference (NC) MP from Anantnag-Rajouri, Mian Altaf, today called for unity among political parties in Jammu and Kashmir to collectively oppose the Waqf Amendment Bill passed recently by the Parliament.
Responding to criticism over NC’s alleged failure to bring a resolution against the Waqf Amendment Act, Altaf said this is not the time for political parties to trade accusations but to come together against the legislation. “The role of the National Conference in Parliament was clear. When this bill was introduced two months ago, I opposed it on merits and put forward the concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he told reporters here.
He said the bill was passed because of the BJP’s majority in Parliament, despite opposition from several quarters. “I fulfilled my duty in Parliament by opposing this bill. But now is not the time for us to blame each other. I appeal to all political parties in Kashmir, whether NC or those against NC, to unite and oppose this decision collectively,” he said.
He said that the Waqf Amendment Bill is not just an issue concerning Kashmir but has hurt the sentiments of Muslims across India. “We should not indulge in blame game. Instead, we should collectively expose and oppose this decision of the BJP,” he added.
He also referred to the legal challenge against the bill in the Supreme Court, saying that several petitions have already been filed by various parties, including the CPI and the Congress. “Those who want to go to the court should do so. Many petitions are being filed, and around 16 have already been heard regarding this issue in the Supreme Court,” he said.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
