Parliamentary Meetings on Waqf Bill: Unresolved Property Claims Stir Controversy

Meetings of the Joint Committee of Parliament on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill have become contentious, with government bodies and Waqf boards disputing property ownership. Key figures like AIMIM's Asaduddin Owaisi have submitted data on alleged unauthorized government possession of Waqf properties, while the Archaeological Survey of India and other ministries accuse Waqf boards of unauthorized claims.

The Joint Committee of Parliament discussions on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill have escalated into a contentious arena, with multiple government bodies accusing Waqf boards of illegitimately claiming properties.

Opposition members assert that many Waqf properties are unlawfully held by government entities such as the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi presented a list of 172 Waqf properties in Delhi allegedly under unauthorized ASI control.

The ASI countered by stating over 120 of its protected monuments are incorrectly claimed by Waqf boards, sparking further controversy. Urban affairs and road transport ministries, along with the Railway Board, back the proposed legal amendments, as debates continue in the lead-up to Parliament's Winter Session.

(With inputs from agencies.)