14-Apr-2025,12:00 AM In a fiery speech that has stirred political waters, PM Modi launched a direct attack on the Congress party, accusing it of promoting a dangerous “votebank ka virus” by supporting the controversial Waqf Act. Addressing a large gathering during an election campaign rally, PM Modi alleged that the Congress-backed Waqf Act enabled systematic “land loot” under the guise of minority welfare. He assured citizens that the time for such “appeasement politics” is over, and his government will ensure transparency and equal rights for all.
The Prime Minister’s remarks reflect his broader push to expose what he calls “votebank politics” — where community-specific policies are used to gather electoral support. With the upcoming elections heating up, PM Modi’s remarks on the Waqf issue are being viewed as a pivotal moment in his campaign narrative.
PM Modi Slams Congress: “Votebank Ka Virus Has Damaged the Nation”
PM Modi : Accusations Over Waqf Act Misuse
PM Modi claimed that the Waqf Act, which was expanded during Congress rule, allowed Waqf boards to claim ownership over thousands of acres of land, sometimes even without notice or due process. He termed this practice “land jihad,” and accused the Congress of prioritizing appeasement politics over national interest.
“Congress ne vote ke liye desh ka nuksan kiya hai. Waqf ke naam pe zameen ka loot kiya gaya. Ye ‘votebank ka virus’ ab khatam hoga,” declared PM Modi.
The Prime Minister stated that this wasn’t just a legal oversight, but a strategic political maneuver that disenfranchised many communities and farmers by giving unchecked powers to Waqf boards.
PM Modi Push for Transparency and Equal Land Rights
Promises to Reform Land Governance
During his speech, PM Modi pledged to review land allotment laws and establish transparency in property rights, especially in rural and semi-urban regions. He said that land ownership disputes triggered by unchecked Waqf board claims had led to unnecessary litigation and public unrest.
His government, he added, is determined to protect the rights of every citizen — irrespective of religion or community — and ensure that no one loses their land because of politically motivated legislation.
PM Modi Questions Congress’ Motives Behind the Waqf Law
Political Appeasement or Welfare?
PM Modi raised critical questions regarding the intent behind Congress’ decisions to amend and expand the powers of Waqf boards over the years. He argued that instead of using the law to genuinely uplift minorities, it became a tool for selective favoritism and real estate control.
He further said:
“Congress ne Waqf Act ko ek vote-bank machine bana diya. Lekin ab desh badal raha hai. Sabka saath, sabka vikas ab sirf naara nahi, haqeeqat hai.” – PM Modi
His statement underscores the ideological rift between the BJP and Congress on issues of minority welfare, national integration, and legal parity.
PM Modi Campaign Strategy: Land Rights as a Core Issue
Rural Outreach and Farmer Sentiment
With land ownership being a sensitive issue in rural India, PM Modi is clearly tapping into deep-seated resentment over past property disputes caused by vague laws. Many farmers, especially in North India, have expressed concerns over their ancestral lands being claimed without proper verification under the Waqf board’s provisions.
By linking Congress with these grievances, PM Modi is effectively positioning his party as the defender of farmers and the middle class — promising to “end the loot” and restore fairness.
Reactions Pour In: Supporters and Critics Respond
BJP Supporters Back Modi’s Strong Stand
Within the BJP camp, PM Modi’s comments have been welcomed as bold and necessary. Leaders and spokespersons took to social media to reinforce the Prime Minister’s views, sharing incidents where Waqf land claims have been contested or overturned by courts.
Many praised PM Modi for highlighting an issue often ignored in mainstream discourse, saying it exposed the Congress’ “double standards.”
Opposition Accuses Modi of Dividing Communities
On the other hand, Congress and other opposition parties accused PM Modi of “polarizing voters” ahead of the elections. Congress leaders defended the Waqf Act as a protective mechanism for religious minorities and dismissed the Prime Minister’s claims as “election-time propaganda.”
They also questioned the timing of the remarks, suggesting they were meant to distract from pressing economic and employment issues.
What is the Waqf Act and Why is It Controversial?
A Quick Overview
The Waqf Act governs the administration of Waqf properties — land or assets donated for religious or charitable purposes under Islamic law. These are managed by state and central Waqf boards. Over time, allegations of irregularities, misuse of power, and lack of transparency in the functioning of Waqf boards have become increasingly common.
Critics argue that the law gives too much authority to the boards, sometimes allowing them to lay claim to public or private lands without adequate proof or legal process.
PM Modi leveraged this criticism to frame the issue as a matter of public justice rather than a religious concern.
PM Modi Broader Vision: One Nation, Equal Rights
Ending Vote-Bank Politics
For years, PM Modi has built his political brand on the promise of ending “vote-bank politics” and establishing equal rights for all. His government’s stand on triple talaq, CAA, and the abolition of Article 370 have all followed a similar ideological path.
By attacking the Waqf Act, he’s adding another chapter to this narrative — one that he claims supports uniform civil rights and equal land ownership.
“The days of selective appeasement are over. My government will ensure justice for all, and privileges for none,” reiterated PM Modi.
Conclusion
PM Modi’s scathing attack on Congress over the Waqf Act has opened up a fresh front in the battle of ideologies ahead of the national elections. By describing the law as a tool for land loot and labeling Congress’ support as a manifestation of the “votebank ka virus,” he has clearly struck a chord with a significant voter base.
Whether this strategy translates into electoral gains remains to be seen, but one thing is clear — PM Modi is not shying away from controversial topics and is framing the election as a battle between appeasement politics and transparent governance. With land rights, religious harmony, and development all in play, the political climate is set to intensify in the days ahead.
