Thu Apr 03 13:30:51 UTC 2025: ## Biju Janata Dal Shifts Stance on Waqf Amendment Bill, Allowing Members to Vote on Conscience
**New Delhi, April 4, 2025** – The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), a regional party from Odisha, has unexpectedly altered its position on the Waqf Amendment Bill, opting to allow its Rajya Sabha members a free vote. This marks a significant development, as the BJD had previously voiced strong opposition to the bill.
Senior BJD leader Sasmit Patra announced the party’s decision on X (formerly Twitter), stating that no party whip would be imposed on the seven BJD Rajya Sabha members. Patra cited the party’s commitment to secularism and inclusivity, and its consideration of diverse opinions from minority communities regarding the bill.
This move represents the first instance of a non-aligned party deviating from the opposition bloc on this legislation. While other opposition parties, such as the AIADMK and YSR Congress, remain opposed, the BJD’s decision could bolster the government’s chances of passing the bill in the Rajya Sabha. The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) currently holds a slim majority.
The BJD’s shift comes after a significant electoral setback in the 2024 general elections. The party, which had governed Odisha for three decades, suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of the BJP, losing all its Lok Sabha seats in the state. Following this defeat, BJD leader Naveen Patnaik signaled a distancing from the BJP, notably participating in an opposition walkout during Parliament’s inaugural session. The party has also revised its stance on other key issues, including the “One Nation One Election” proposal.
Political analysts see the BJD’s decision as a strategic recalibration, reflecting its changed relationship with the BJP and its focus on navigating the new political landscape. The party’s decision to allow a conscience vote, while technically maintaining neutrality, could effectively provide additional support to the government on this contentious bill.
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