T’puram: CPM state secretariat on Thursday criticized the UDF govt’s stand in the high court regarding the constitution of the Kerala State Waqf Board, alleging that it had taken a position favourable to BJP.In a statement, CPM said the govt had agreed to reconstitute the waqf board in connection with a petition filed by BJP state vice-president Shone George. The party alleged that the stand marked a departure from Kerala’s earlier position against the waqf law amendments brought by the BJP-led central govt.CPM said the previous LDF govt had passed a unanimous resolution in the assembly against the amendments. It asked UDF constituents, including IUML, to clarify whether they supported the govt’s position before the court.According to the party, the advocate general informed the court that the govt supported the plea for reconstitution of the board. CPM alleged that the stand reflected a broader political understanding between UDF and BJP, and said organizations aligned with IUML should also state their position.The party said CPM and Left parties opposed the waqf amendment law in Parliament on the ground that it would affect minority rights. It also criticized the Congress brass, alleging that it did not take a firm stand during the parliamentary debate.CPM alleged that BJP had projected the amendments as measures to help minorities while avoiding questions on issues such as minority scholarships and violence in the name of beef. The party said developments in other states showed the possible impact of the amended law.It said the govt’s stand raised concerns over the future composition of the state waqf board and asked whether nominees backed by the Sangh Parivar would be brought into the board.CPM said the UDF govt’s approach on the waqf board had exposed its political position and urged the ruling front to explain its stand to the public, particularly on matters concerning minority rights and Kerala’s secular character.
