Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 5: Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit has voiced strong criticism of the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, stating that while the original law had issues, the new amendment neither resolves key concerns nor reassures the Muslim community.

Speaking on the controversial legislation, Dikshit acknowledged that the earlier Waqf Act had loopholes, particularly related to land misuse and mismanagement, which needed attention. However, he argued that the government has taken a disruptive approach instead of reforming the existing system.

“There were cases of land grabbing, yes. But that doesn’t mean you dismantle the entire framework,” Dikshit said. “There was scope for improvement – whether it was governance of Waqf properties or banking support – but the community needed clarity, not confusion.”

He likened the situation to the now-repealed farm laws, stating, “Like with the farm Bills, the government failed to communicate how this new version benefits the very people it impacts. They reversed the farm laws under pressure, but here, they seem unconcerned with Muslim sentiments. That’s troubling.”

Dikshit warned that failure to engage with stakeholders, especially in sensitive matters involving minority rights, could lead to resistance and deepen mistrust. “The question people are asking is: if those managing Waqf land weren’t facing issues, why were changes needed at all?”

He also took a sharp dig at the BJP's political tactics, accusing the ruling party of repeatedly communalising policy issues for electoral gains.

“Every issue, regardless of its nature, is being turned into a tool to divide communities,” he said. “Public welfare has taken a back seat to political strategy.”

On the healthcare front, Dikshit offered a cautious view of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). While acknowledging the central government's intent, he remained critical of the scheme’s execution and coverage limits.

“I’ve personally seen cases where hospital bills far exceeded the Rs 5 lakh cap under Ayushman Bharat. That’s not enough,” he said. “Unless states step in, like Rajasthan did by expanding coverage to Rs 25 lakh, the scheme will fall short for families facing serious health crises.”

Despite his skepticism, Dikshit emphasized that no state should oppose a welfare initiative, and welcomed Delhi’s decision to move forward with the programme. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Delhi and central governments is expected soon, marking the official rollout of the scheme in the national capital.

“Improving healthcare access is vital,” Dikshit said, “but it should be done right — with foresight, transparency, and people, not politics, at the center.”

As debate continues over both the Waqf Amendment and the Ayushman Bharat scheme, Dikshit’s remarks reflect growing concerns within the opposition about the central government’s policy direction and public communication strategy.