Opposition MPs Boycott Waqf Bill Tour Over Procedural Disputes

Opposition MPs on the committee examining the Waqf (Amendment) Bill have boycotted a state tour, citing unmet assurances from Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. They accuse chairman Jagdambika Pal of proceeding without quorum, though Pal claims these tours are informal and aims to meet the deadlines.

Opposition MPs on the parliamentary committee scrutinizing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill have boycotted an ongoing state tour, alleging a breach of assurances given by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The chairman, BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, is accused of advancing the panel's activities without meeting procedural requirements.

Pal, who chairs the Joint Committee of Parliament, has dismissed these claims, emphasizing that the study tours are informal and do not require meeting quorum. The committee is currently engaging with stakeholders across five states, despite the opposition MPs' absence.

The opposition members have expressed their dissatisfaction formally to Speaker Om Birla, arguing there is no immediate need for the report and suggesting procedural adjustments. Pal remains focused on completing the report by the Winter Session deadline.

(With inputs from agencies.)