Nadeem Akhtar has become the fifth leader from the Janata Dal (United) to resign in protest against the party's support for the Waqf Amendment Bill.
His resignation follows the exits of Raju Nayyar, Tabrez Siddiqui Alig, Mohammad Shahnawaz Malik, and Mohammed Kasim Ansari, all of whom expressed disappointment and disapproval over the JD(U)’s stance on the controversial legislation.
Raju Nayyar had earlier submitted a strongly worded resignation letter, stating that he could no longer remain associated with a party that voted in favour of what he termed a "black law" targeting Muslims.
He announced his resignation from both his post as former state secretary of JD(U) youth and the primary membership of the party, urging Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) National President Nitish Kumar to relieve him from all responsibilities.
Tabrez Siddiqui Alig also penned a letter to Nitish Kumar, accusing the party of betraying the trust of the Muslim community. He echoed the sentiments of other former members who criticised the party for straying from its secular foundations.
Mohammad Shahnawaz Malik expressed anguish in his resignation, saying that millions of Indian Muslims had once believed in JD(U) as a flag-bearer of secularism, but that belief had now been shattered. Similarly, Mohammed Kasim Ansari cited deep hurt caused by the party’s support of the bill as his reason for leaving.
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board had earlier appealed to all secular political parties, including allies of the BJP, to oppose the bill. Despite the warnings, JD(U) backed the legislation, triggering widespread resentment among Muslim leaders and supporters.
These resignations have come at a critical juncture, with Bihar preparing for assembly elections. The passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 in Parliament—following a long and heated debate—has clearly created ripples in political circles.
The Rajya Sabha passed the bill with 128 votes in favour and 95 against. Additionally, the Parliament also passed the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, solidifying legislative changes that have sparked discontent among a key section of the electorate.
Also Read: Bihar now a 'university of crime' under Nitish: Congress
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