Contentious Waqf Amendment Bill Sparks Heated Parliamentary Debate

The Joint Committee of Parliament reviewed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill amid opposition objections. It included provisions to empower women and proposed new roles for district collectors and non-Muslims in Waqf boards. Concerns were raised about the bill's potential social impact and the adequacy of the minority affairs ministry's presentation.

The Joint Committee of Parliament convened to review the Waqf (Amendment) Bill on Thursday, amidst objections from opposition MPs over various provisions. The Union Minority Affairs Ministry presented the proposed law, prompting praise from BJP members for amendments aimed at empowering women. However, the meeting witnessed heated exchanges as members from different parties recorded their views, offered suggestions, and sought clarifications.

Committee Chairperson Jagdambika Pal described the six-hour meeting, which included a lunch break, as 'fruitful.' Following this initial gathering, the committee plans to reconvene on August 30 to hear the perspectives of various state Waqf bodies. Despite some consensus that the ministry appeared 'unprepared' to address concerns, broader consultations were called for by BJP ally Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) and the Telugu Desam Party.

Prominent members attending the meeting included notable figures from the BJP, Congress, TMC, YSR Congress, AAP, AIMIM, DMK, LJP, and TDP. Opposition members criticized several bill clauses, particularly those granting district collectors authority over disputed property and allowing non-Muslim members on Waqf boards. AIMIM's Asaduddin Owaisi warned the bill could cause social instability, while Congress's Gourav Gogoi emphasized the importance of considering all viewpoints to uphold constitutional values.

(With inputs from agencies.)