'Rights of Muslims will be snatched': West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee calls Waqf bill 'anti-secular'

NEW DELHI: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday termed the Waqf (amendment) Bill "anti-secular" and said that it would "snatch the right of the Muslims."

Banerjee said that the proposed bill had been introduced without prior discussions with state governments regarding the legislation.

"There were no discussion with us (state governments) regarding waqf bill. It will destroy waqf properties. Why have they proposed a bill like this which is absolutely against one particular religion. This is an anti federal bill," she said during the West Bengal assembly session, adding that "rights of Muslims will be snatched by Waqf bill."

Meanwhile, the joint panel on Waqf bill was extended up to last day of Budget session, 2025 after getting Lok Sabha nod.

This happened in view of a heated confrontation at Wednesday's meeting, during which opposition members stormed out, accusing the proceedings of becoming a "mockery."

Opposition parties have strongly condemned the proposed amendments to the Waqf Act, claiming they infringe upon the religious rights of Muslims. In contrast, the ruling BJP has defended the amendments, arguing that they will enhance transparency in the functioning of waqf boards and ensure greater accountability.