As the state gears up for crucial elections, Grand Alliance reaffirms commitment to promote equality and justice.
PATNA – The political climate in the state has intensified following a strong stance taken by the CPI(ML) Liberation on the controversial Waqf Amendment Act. The party, part of the Grand Alliance, has pledged that if elected, it will not implement the act in Bihar, signalling a robust commitment to minority rights and social justice.
Dipankar Bhattacharya, General Secretary of the CPI(ML) Liberation, unveiled the party’s manifesto, the ‘Manifesto Parivartan Sankalp Patra’, on Sunday, emphasising protection of Waqf properties and minority welfare. Speaking at a press conference with other alliance leaders, Bhattacharya stated, “If we come to power, we will not implement the Waqf Amendment Act. We will adopt the same attitude towards all recent laws that go against the Constitution and the federal structure.”
Highlighting the need for comprehensive reform, Bhattacharya criticised the Prohibition of Alcohol Act of April 2016, describing it as a “travesty” and indicating that the law will be reviewed if the alliance forms the government.
“Protecting the rights of minorities, safeguarding Waqf properties, implementing the Sachar Committee recommendations, and taking immediate action against communal violence and hate speech are central to our manifesto,” he added.
The CPI(ML) Liberation leader also outlined extensive development promises for the state’s underprivileged communities. He assured that every landless and homeless family would receive five decimals of land in rural areas and three decimals in urban areas, accompanied by permanent housing. He said, “We will guarantee government procurement of all crops so that farmers and rural labourers receive fair compensation.”
Addressing agricultural concerns, Bhattacharya promised modernisation of canals, re-establishment of agricultural markets, and free electricity for farming. “Every farm will have access to water and electricity. Our aim is to strengthen rural livelihoods,” he said.
Echoing these assurances, RJD leader and Grand Alliance chief ministerial candidate Tejashwi Yadav, while addressing a rally in the Muslim-majority area of Katihar, declared, “If the Grand Alliance forms the government in Bihar, the Waqf Amendment Act passed by the central government will be thrown into the dustbin. Our focus is on education, health, employment, and justice for all communities, particularly minorities.”
Yadav also criticised the NDA government, stating, “The BJP fears the legacy of Lalu Yadav the most. We will ensure that all central laws that harm minorities, including the Waqf Act, will not be enforced in Bihar.”
The CPI(ML) Liberation and RJD’s statements have invigorated the political discourse, highlighting issues critical to the Muslim community and marginalised groups. Analysts note that the promises around Waqf protection, land distribution, rural development, and farmer support could play a pivotal role in influencing voter sentiment in the upcoming elections.
Bhattacharya concluded, “The time has come to oust the BJP-JDU government, which has ruled Bihar for the past two decades. We will build Bihar on a foundation of justice, equality, and democracy, ensuring that the benefits of development reach deprived communities.”
With the Assembly elections approaching, the debate over the Waqf Amendment Act and the broader agenda of minority welfare has taken centre stage, marking a defining moment in Bihar’s political landscape.
