Imarat Shariah Declines CM Nitish Kumar’s Iftaar Invitation in Protest Against Waqf Bill

 Patna, March 22 – A leading Muslim organization in Bihar, Imarat Shariah, has publicly declined Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's invitation for an Iftaar gathering, citing dissatisfaction with his stance on the Waqf Bill.

The organization, which has a significant following across Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha, released a letter in response to the invitation for the Iftaar event, scheduled to take place at the Chief Minister’s residence on March 23.

In its letter, Imarat Shariah stated, "A decision has been taken not to attend the government (sarkaari) Iftaar on March 23... this decision has been taken in view of your support for the Waqf Bill, which threatens to worsen economic and educational backwardness of Muslims."

The organization further accused the Chief Minister of reneging on his secular commitments, asserting, "You rose to power promising a secular (dharm-nirapeksh) rule in which minorities' rights were protected. But your alliance with the BJP and your support for a legislation that is unconstitutional and illogical, militates against your stated commitments."

Additionally, Imarat Shariah dismissed the Iftaar gathering as mere symbolism, remarking, "Your government's indifference towards concerns of Muslims renders meaningless such formal gatherings."

As of now, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his party, the Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)], have not issued a response. The JD(U), which has historically sought to maintain a secular image while courting Muslim voters, currently shares power with the BJP at both the state and national levels. The controversy comes at a critical juncture, with assembly elections in Bihar scheduled for later this year.