Sat Apr 12 06:30:58 UTC 2025: ## Mayawati Slams Rahul Gandhi’s Silence on Waqf Amendment Bill
**New Delhi:** Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati has criticized Rahul Gandhi for remaining silent during Parliament’s debate on the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Bill. Mayawati, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), questioned the Leader of the Opposition’s inaction, noting the extensive debate and the opposition’s strong condemnation of the bill. She argued that the silence is particularly concerning given the widespread anger among Muslims and INDIA bloc partners regarding the legislation.
Mayawati further accused both the Congress and BJP of neglecting Dalit welfare, employment, and education by rendering reservation rights ineffective. She urged religious minorities to recognize the alleged deception of both parties. She also expressed concern over the privatization of power and other sectors and called for the government to uphold its constitutional responsibilities.
This criticism follows Mayawati’s earlier call for the Centre to reconsider and temporarily suspend the Waqf Amendment Act, citing concerns over the inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf Boards. The bill, passed by both houses of Parliament, was notified by the Centre on Tuesday after receiving presidential assent. The Rajya Sabha vote saw 128 members in favor and 95 opposed, while the Lok Sabha vote resulted in 288 supporting and 232 opposing the bill.
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