A major political controversy has erupted in Bihar after several Muslim organizations boycotted Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Iftar party on March 23, 2025. The boycott is in response to the Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)) extending support to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, which these groups believe poses a threat to the autonomy of Waqf properties and Muslim institutions.
In This Article:
The Incident: Boycott of Nitish Kumar’s Iftar Party
Nitish Kumar hosted an Iftar gathering at his official residence in Patna as part of his annual outreach to the Muslim community. However, the event witnessed a major setback as prominent Muslim organizations refused to attend, making their opposition public.
The organizations that boycotted the event include:
- All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB)
- Imarat-e-Shariah
- Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind
- Jamiat Ahle Hadees
- Jamaat-e-Islami Hind
- Khanqah Mujibia
- Khanqah Rahmani
These groups issued a joint statement highlighting that their absence was a symbolic protest against JD(U)’s support for the Waqf Bill, which they believe will allow the government to interfere in Waqf properties and religious institutions.
Immediate Response: Strong Reactions from Muslim Organizations
The boycott was accompanied by harsh criticism from Bihar’s Muslim leaders and scholars. Key points of concern raised by these organizations include:
- Threat to Waqf Properties: Muslim leaders argue that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 would enable government control over mosques, madrasas, cemeteries, and charitable institutions that fall under Waqf.
- Betrayal by Nitish Kumar: Many accused Nitish Kumar of abandoning his secular image by supporting a bill allegedly influenced by BJP, despite his past efforts to maintain good relations with Bihar’s Muslim community.
- No Discussion with Stakeholders: The protesting groups stated that the government did not consult Muslim organizations before supporting the bill, which they believe violates their constitutional and religious rights.
JD(U)’s Reaction: Defending the Move
JD(U) leaders dismissed the boycott, calling it a politically motivated stunt ahead of the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025. Key responses include:
- Denial of Wrongdoing: JD(U) officials claimed that the Waqf Bill is being misinterpreted, insisting that it aims to ensure transparency and better governance of Waqf properties.
- Blame on Opposition Parties: JD(U) accused the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress of instigating the boycott to weaken Nitish Kumar’s hold over the Muslim vote bank.
- Reaffirming Commitment to Muslims: Nitish Kumar’s party reassured that it remains committed to the welfare of the Muslim community, despite supporting the Waqf Bill.
Political and Public Reactions: Strong Divisions
The boycott has created polarized opinions among different political factions:
- BJP’s Stand: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defended the Waqf Amendment Bill, arguing that it will prevent corruption in Waqf properties and benefit the community in the long run.
- Congress’s Take: Congress leaders opposed the bill, stating that it violates the religious freedom of Indian Muslims. However, they refrained from endorsing the Iftar boycott, saying that mixing religious traditions with politics is inappropriate.
- Public Reaction: Social media saw a mixed response, with some supporting the boycott as a strong political statement, while others criticized it as unnecessary politicization of religious events.
Background: Understanding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 is a highly debated piece of legislation that proposes key changes in the management of Waqf properties across India.
Key Provisions of the Bill:
- Increased Government Oversight – The bill seeks to bring Waqf properties under stricter government control, allowing intervention in financial transactions.
- Transparency and Accountability – Advocates argue that the bill will prevent mismanagement and corruption in Waqf boards.
- Opposition from Muslim Groups – Critics argue that the bill dilutes the autonomy of Waqf boards, interfering with religious rights.
Implications for Nitish Kumar and JD(U)
The boycott reflects a growing rift between JD(U) and Bihar’s Muslim community, which has historically supported secular parties. The controversy could:
- Impact JD(U)’s electoral prospects in the Bihar Assembly Elections in October-November 2025.
- Strengthen opposition parties, especially RJD and Congress, who are now trying to win back Muslim voters.
- Force JD(U) to reconsider its stance on the Waqf Bill to prevent further alienation of Muslim voters.
Future Course of Action: Will JD(U) Revisit Its Stand?
As tensions rise, the Nitish Kumar-led government now faces a dilemma:
- Stick with BJP and continue supporting the Waqf Bill—risking further backlash from Muslim voters.
- Modify or withdraw support for the bill—to retain its Muslim voter base and prevent further protests.
The boycott of Nitish Kumar’s Iftar party is more than just a religious protest; it signals a major shift in Bihar’s political landscape. As elections approach, the JD(U)’s Muslim outreach strategy is now under serious threat, making the next few months crucial for Bihar politics.
By – Lakshaya
