Sat Apr 05 22:29:26 UTC 2025: ## BJP Defends Passage of Waqf Amendment Bill Amidst Opposition Criticism
**Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh –** BJP state president Daggubati Purandeswari defended the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, dismissing opposition claims of insufficient debate and alleging political motivations behind the criticism. Speaking to the media on Saturday, Ms. Purandeswari stated that the bill’s passage was a bold move, unprecedented due to the potential for political backlash.
She refuted Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s allegations of inadequate discussion, questioning the presence of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi during parliamentary debates. The bill, she highlighted, was passed after thorough debate and consideration of views from 25 state Waqf Boards, following amendments based on stakeholder feedback. Ms. Purandeswari cited the bill’s passage as another example of the BJP-led NDA government’s decisive actions, comparing it to the abrogation of Article 370 and the construction of the Ram Mandir.
The BJP leader emphasized the significant potential of Waqf properties, estimated at 9.5 lakh acres nationwide, to generate significantly more income if properly managed. She cited figures suggesting current income of ₹163 crore annually, compared to a potential ₹16,000 crore if optimized, as reported by the Rajinder Sachar Committee. Despite legal challenges to the bill, Ms. Purandeswari expressed confidence in the government’s ability to overcome any hurdles. The President is yet to give her assent to the bill.
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