Congress MP and poet Imran Pratapgarhi made a bold statement on April 2, 2025, by arriving at Parliament dressed in black to protest against the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Holding a placard that read “Reject Waqf Bill,” Pratapgarhi expressed his firm opposition to the legislation, which was introduced in the Lok Sabha by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju.
The bill, aimed at amending the Waqf Act of 1995, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, particularly members of the INDIA bloc. Critics argue that the proposed amendments undermine the rights and autonomy of Waqf boards across the country. Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Pratapgarhi described the bill as “unconstitutional” and an “attack on minority rights.” He vowed to oppose it both inside and outside the House.
The Congress party, along with other opposition members, has been vocal in its resistance to the bill. Leaders from the Samajwadi Party, AIMIM, and other INDIA bloc parties have also criticized the proposed changes, calling them an attempt to take control of Waqf properties under the guise of administrative reforms.
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), however, has defended the bill, stating that it aims to bring more transparency and accountability to the management of Waqf properties. According to government sources, the amendments seek to address longstanding issues related to the misuse and mismanagement of Waqf assets while ensuring their use for the welfare of intended beneficiaries.
As the bill was tabled in the Lok Sabha, the political atmosphere in Parliament remained charged, with opposition MPs gearing up for an intense debate. Pratapgarhi’s symbolic protest has added to the growing momentum against what opposition leaders describe as an erosion of minority rights. The coming days are expected to witness heated discussions as both sides present their arguments.
