Tensions Flare Over Waqf (Amendment) Bill: Opposition Alleges Bias

Opposition MPs disrupted a joint Parliamentary committee meeting discussing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, accusing the process of bias. Disputes arose over the unauthorized presentations by the Delhi Waqf Board. Despite the turmoil, the committee continues its reform discussions, focusing on transparency and legal frameworks for Waqf properties.

On Tuesday, opposition Members of Parliament created a stir at a joint Parliamentary committee meeting discussing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The meeting, also attended by the Delhi Waqf Board and Minority Affairs representatives, aimed to record oral evidence. The opposition MPs expressed concerns over the Delhi Waqf Board's presentations, alleging they were unauthorized and illegally permitted without Delhi government's approval.

Further, the MPs contended that the Waqf Board operates under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, an arm of an elected government, making governmental approval necessary for any submitted report — a requirement reportedly overlooked by the Delhi Waqf Board CEO. Interestingly, the Joint Committee of Parliament, in consultation with the Lok Sabha Secretary-General, agreed to hear the Board's views sans Delhi Government's consent.

Monday's session saw opposition MPs staging a walkout, accusing bias in proceedings steered by Jagdambika Pal. They claimed that the Delhi Municipal Corporation commissioner and Waqf Board CEO Ashwini Kumar significantly altered the initial Waqf Board report without involving the Chief Minister. While tensions ebbed upon their return, the committee continued its work, hearing from various stakeholders to refine the reformative thrust of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill.

(With inputs from agencies.)