Let states decide on shape of state Waqf boards: TDP in Lok Sabha

Key NDA ally TDP took a nuanced stand on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill as it proposed that state governments be allowed to decide on the composition of state waqf boards, especially the appointment of non-Muslim members.

Keeping an eye on its core Muslim votebase, TDP decided to support the bill with a proposed change as it was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday. As first reported by ET, TDP said it had always stood for the welfare of minorities and proposed that the final say on the composition of state waqf boards be left to the state governments.

Opening the discussion for his party, TDP's Bapatla MP Krishna Prasad Tenneti said, "TDP has always stood for the upliftment of the minority communities. I urge you to consider giving flexibility to state governments in deciding the composition of the state waqf boards."

TDP, however, did not oppose the bill and proposed this flexibility be given when rules are framed to operationalise the Act. "Once again, I would like to say that in the interest of the upliftment of women, the youth and the downtrodden sections, I would urge the government that while framing the rules for the Act, this be considered."

The party's stand in the House came after detailed meetings at Andhra CM N Chandrababu Naidu's residence late Tuesday night. As per sources, he consulted legal experts and decided that the party will support the bill but the Lok Sabha MPs will propose the change in their speeches. Then, Naidu had an online call with MPs where he discussed in detail the contents of the speeches. The discussions continued till midnight. As per sources, the decision to take a nuanced stand was taken as moving an amendment would have been looked at as open opposition to the government's bill. "This would not have been coalition dharma. We can't be part of the government and be seen as opposing the government's bill," said a TDP functionary.