Nadeem Akhtar became the fifth JD(U) leader to resign over the party’s decision to support the Waqf Amendment Bill. His exit followed similar resignations by Raju Nayyar, Tabrez Siddiqui Alig, Mohammad Shahnawaz Malik, and Mohammed Kasim Ansari.
Raju Nayyar Resigned First
Earlier, Raju Nayyar stepped down soon after the bill passed in the Lok Sabha. In his letter, he said, “I resign from JD(U) after Waqf Amendment Bill is passed and supported in the Lok Sabha.”
He expressed his anger further: “I am deeply hurt by the JD(U) voting in favour of this black law, which oppresses Muslims.”
He also added, “I resign from the post of former state secretary of JD(U) youth and primary membership of the party. I request to send a letter to the Honorable CM Nitish Kumar and relieve me from all responsibilities.”
Muslim Leaders Accuse JD(U) of Betrayal
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) had earlier urged all secular parties, including BJP allies, to oppose the bill. Despite this call, JD(U) supported the bill, which led to a wave of resignations.
Tabrez Siddiqui Alig wrote to JD(U) National President and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. In his letter, he said the party had “betrayed the trust of the Muslim community.”
Mohammad Shahnawaz Malik expressed similar disappointment. He wrote, “Millions of Indian Muslims like us had the firm belief that you are the flag bearer of purely secular ideology. But now this belief has been broken.”
Likewise, Mohammed Kasim Ansari said he felt “deeply hurt” by the party’s stance and resigned in protest.
Timing Raises Political Concerns
These resignations come at a crucial time for JD(U) as Bihar heads towards assembly elections. The backlash from the Muslim community may weaken the party’s support base.
Parliament Passed the Controversial Bill
The Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 passed in Parliament after a long and heated debate. Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar declared, “Ayes 128 and Noes 95, Absent zero. The Bill is passed.”
Additionally, Parliament also passed the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, adding to the controversy.