JPC on Waqf Amendment Bill 2024: Ministries Present Cases Amidst Political Tensions

The Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 convenes with three key ministries to discuss the contentious bill. Political leaders from various parties present their views, highlighting benefits and objections, along with accusations of politicization.

The Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 convened a critical meeting on Thursday, inviting representatives from three major ministries. JPC Chairman and BJP MP Jagdambika Pal stated,

"Today there is an important meeting of JPC in which we have called the Minister of Urban Development, Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Transport to make presentations. We are engaging with multiple stakeholders to gather a wide range of perspectives," he said.

Echoing a call for peaceful dialogue, Shiv Sena leader and JPC panel member Naresh Mhaske urged participants to voice their opinions without causing disruptions. Speaking to ANI, Mhaske condemned the opposition's approach, stating, "The committee was formed to discuss the amendment bill peacefully. Creating a ruckus is mere political posturing by the opposition." He emphasized that the bill would significantly benefit the poor and Muslim women, extending an olive branch amidst rising tensions. However, he also criticized the Congress party for its historical politics of division and hate.

Meanwhile, Congress MP K Suresh conveyed serious objections from over 25 Muslim organizations. "Various groups in Kerala urge the withdrawal of this bill, presenting their amendments and concerns," Suresh noted. He handed the organizations' memorandum to the JPC chairman, highlighting the significant controversy surrounding the bill's provisions.

(With inputs from agencies.)