BJP MP introduces a bill in Rajya Sabha to repeal Waqf Act

The BJP's Rajya Sabha member from Uttar Pradesh Harnath Singh Yadav on Friday introduced a private member's bill in the upper house, seeking to repeal the Waqf Act, 1995. When Yadav stood up to introduce the bill, several opposition parties opposed him. The chairman of the house later decided to seek division of votes.

After voting, there were 53 votes in favour of the introduction of the bill while 32 votes were against it. The treasury benches voted in support of the introduction, while parties such as the Congress, RJD, AITC and NCP opposed the bill.

"This Waqf Act is completely unconstitutional, and it should be repealed as early as possible. The Waqf has unlimited powers to snatch any property in the name of Muslim welfare," Yadav told ET. "I hope the chairman will allow discussion on the bill in the coming days, when I will raise several facts."