'Committed to welfare of minorities': AIADMK votes against Waqf Bill in Rajya Sabha

New Delhi: The AIADMK, BJP's erstwhile partner, voted against the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, in the Rajya Sabha amid the speculation of its possible alliance with the ruling BJP at the Centre. Interestingly, one MP each from BJD and YSRCP voted in favour of the draft legislation on waqf in the Upper House, contrary to other MPs of their respective parties.

Participating in the lengthy debate on the Waqf Bill in the Rajya Sabha, AIADMK floor leader M Thambidurai opposed the bill, saying that his party is committed to the welfare of the minorities. AIADMK's opposition to the waqf bill came days after the party's general secretary and former chief minister of Tamil Nadu E Palaniswamy met senior BJP leader and Union minister Amit Shah, raising the speculation of alliance between the two.

Meanwhile, there were several MPs who voted differently from their party lines. Among them was BJD floor leader Sasmit Patra who supported the bill while his party MPs claimed they all voted against the bill. Similarly, YSRCP MPs, barring Parimal Nathwani, also voted against the bill. Sources said Nathwani supported the bill.


BRS, another fence sitter which usually sides with the government, opposed the bill.

YSRCP, BJD and BRS - the three fence sitters have usually sided with the government on crucial legislations. But after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and changing political equations, they usually vote with the Opposition now. BJP dethroned BJD in Odisha and became part of TDP-led government in Andhra Pradesh after defeating YSRCP.