The Telugu Desam Party (TDP), a key ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre, has announced its support for the Waqf Amendment Bill but with one critical condition. The Chandrababu Naidu-led party has requested that the provision allowing non-Muslims in Waqf Boards should be left to the discretion of state governments.

TDP's Stand on the Waqf Bill

While extending its support to the Bill, TDP has issued a whip to its 16 Lok Sabha MPs, ensuring they vote in favor of the legislation. However, the party will push for an amendment, arguing that the decision to include non-Muslims in state Waqf Boards should rest with individual state governments rather than being mandated centrally.

A TDP source stated, "The party will unanimously demand that representation of non-Muslims in the board be left to the discretion of the respective states." Despite this concern, the party supports other progressive changes in the Bill, such as the inclusion of women in Waqf Boards.

Late-Night Meeting and Consultation

TDP's decision came after an intense late-night meeting on Tuesday, during which Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu consulted with legal experts on the implications of the Bill. According to reports, he also engaged with Muslim community leaders to assess their stance on the amendments.

A TDP insider emphasized that the party’s opposition to the non-Muslim inclusion clause should not be mistaken as resistance to the Bill. "No major changes will be affected in the Waqf Act," a senior TDP leader asserted, adding that the party only supports amendments that benefit the Muslim community.

TDP’s Outreach to Muslim Community

Recognizing Muslims as a significant support base, TDP has consistently reassured the community of its commitment to their welfare. Addressing an Iftar gathering in March, CM Chandrababu Naidu stated, "Justice has been done to the Muslim community under TDP rule. And Muslims will be better off with the NDA in power."

BJP's Need for Ally Support in Parliament

The BJP, which lacks a clear majority in Lok Sabha, is heavily dependent on allies like TDP and JD(U) for the Bill’s passage. The two parties collectively hold 28 Lok Sabha seats, making their support crucial.

The Waqf Amendment Bill will be tabled in the Lok Sabha at noon on Wednesday, with an eight-hour discussion period allotted for deliberation. If passed, it will be presented in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.

Key Provisions of the Waqf Amendment Bill

The Waqf Amendment Bill proposes several significant changes, including:

• Inclusion of women in Waqf Boards, a move seen as a progressive step.

• Defining the role of non-Muslims in Waqf Boards, which has led to TDP's demand for state discretion.

• Strengthening governance mechanisms to improve transparency and efficiency in managing Waqf properties.

Political Reactions and Next Steps

As the Bill heads for debate, opposition parties are expected to raise concerns regarding its provisions. While Congress and AIMIM have opposed the Bill citing interference in Waqf matters, BJP and its allies argue that the amendments aim to improve governance and inclusivity.

The debate in Parliament will determine whether TDP’s proposed changes are accepted or whether the Bill passes in its original form. Either way, the party's conditional support highlights the balancing act required in coalition politics.

With the Lok Sabha debate on the Bill set to begin shortly, all eyes will be on how BJP navigates its alliances to ensure smooth passage of the legislation. Stay updated with the latest developments on the Waqf Amendment Bill.

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