Tue Apr 01 17:54:50 UTC 2025: ## Opposition to Stage Full-Scale Debate, Vote Against Waqf Amendment Bill

**New Delhi** – The Indian Parliament is set for a showdown tomorrow as the opposition unites to vehemently oppose the Waqf Amendment Bill. A united front of opposition parties, including the INDIA alliance and several non-aligned parties, have pledged to thoroughly debate the bill and vote against its passage.

In a meeting this evening, opposition parties unanimously agreed to participate fully in the debate, rejecting previous suggestions of walkouts or disruptions. Instead, they will focus on highlighting what they deem to be the bill’s constitutional flaws and shortcomings. The opposition has requested 10 hours for the debate, while the government has allotted eight.

Senior Congress leader KC Venugopal stated that the opposition views the bill as a clear violation of the constitution, urging like-minded parties to join their cause. This broad-based opposition includes parties like the AIADMK, Biju Janata Dal (BJD), and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), demonstrating the bill’s lack of support across party lines. The AIADMK has already declared its intention to vote against the bill, while the BJD and BRS have expressed serious reservations.

The bill, aimed at improving the management of Waqf properties, has faced criticism since its introduction last year. While the government made changes based on a joint committee’s recommendations, the opposition remains unconvinced. Several opposition parties, including the Congress, RJD, and TMC, have issued whips to their MPs, ensuring their presence for the crucial vote.

In contrast, four key NDA parties – TDP, JD(U), Shiv Sena, and LJP (Ram Vilas) – have issued whips to their MPs, instructing them to support the bill. The NDA currently holds 293 seats in the 542-member Lok Sabha. The debate promises to be a significant test of the government’s legislative strength and the opposition’s ability to forge a united front.

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