Controversy and Deliberations Surround Waqf (Amendment) Bill Hearings

Jagdambika Pal, chairman of the JPC on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is spearheading hearings with various stakeholders, including the Delhi Waqf Board and the Ministry of Minority Affairs. Controversy arose with opposition MPs alleging biased proceedings, but efforts continue for comprehensive reform of the Waqf Act.

In a significant move, BJP MP and Chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, Jagdambika Pal, announced a crucial hearing will be held with representatives from the Delhi Waqf Board and the Ministry of Minority Affairs. This step is part of a broader initiative to gather oral evidence on proposed amendments aimed at overhauling the Waqf Act.

Responding to correspondence from Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, which he claims entered the public domain prematurely, Pal emphasized the committee's extensive efforts in consulting diverse stakeholders. The JPC has engaged entities ranging from state Waqf Boards to minority commissions, former judges, and nonprofit organizations to ensure comprehensive discourse on the bill.

Amidst allegations of procedural bias from opposition MPs, tensions erupted during a recent JPC meeting at Parliament Annexe. Despite this, the committee remains committed to reform, focusing on introducing digitization, strengthening audits, enhancing transparency, and reclaiming illicitly occupied Waqf properties. Further sessions are planned to continue the dialogue with key stakeholders.

(With inputs from agencies.)