India’s Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) has approved the Waqf Amendment Bill, incorporating 14 modifications proposed by the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The bill, which aims to amend the Waqf Act of 1995, has been a subject of controversy, with opposition parties accusing the JPC chairman, Jagadambika Pal, of bias and rushing through the process.
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The JPC, which has 16 MPs from the BJP and its allies, and 10 from the opposition, voted on party lines to accept the NDA’s amendments. The opposition’s proposed amendments were rejected, with Pal stating that each of their suggestions was put to a vote, but failed to garner sufficient support.
The Waqf Amendment Bill proposes significant changes to the existing Waqf Act, including the composition of the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf boards. The bill also seeks to give the district collector powers to resolve disputes over Waqf properties.
Opposition parties have expressed strong reservations about the bill, alleging that it is an attempt to undermine the autonomy of Waqf boards and interfere with Muslim charitable properties. They have also accused the JPC chairman of not allowing sufficient discussion and debate on the bill.
Congress MP and JPC member, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, stated that the committee’s proceedings were “highly irregular” and that the opposition’s concerns were not adequately addressed. He also expressed concerns about the bill’s potential impact on Muslim communities and their charitable institutions.
The approval of the Waqf Amendment Bill by the JPC
It is seen as a significant victory for the ruling NDA, which has been pushing for the bill’s passage. However, the opposition’s concerns and allegations of bias are likely to continue, potentially leading to further controversy and debate in the coming days.
The Waqf Amendment Bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament soon, where it is likely to face further debate and discussion. The bill’s passage will depend on the government’s ability to muster sufficient support from its allies and neutral parties.
In the meantime, Muslim organizations and community leaders have expressed concerns about the bill’s potential impact on their charitable institutions and properties. They have called for greater transparency and consultation in the legislative process, and have urged the government to reconsider its proposals.
As the debate over the Waqf Amendment Bill continues, it remains to be seen how the government will address the concerns of opposition parties and Muslim community leaders. One thing is certain, however: the bill’s passage will have significant implications for India’s Muslim communities and their charitable institutions.
Key Provisions of JPC Approved the Waqf Bill:
Composition of Waqf Boards: The bill proposes changes to the composition of the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf boards.
Dispute Resolution: The bill seeks to give the district collector powers to resolve disputes over Waqf properties.
Representation of Muslim Women: The bill proposes to ensure representation of Muslim women in Waqf boards.
Non-Muslim CEO: The bill allows for the appointment of a non-Muslim Chief Executive Officer of Waqf boards.
The Waqf Amendment Bill has sparked intense debate and discussion, with opposition parties and Muslim community leaders expressing concerns about its potential impact. As the bill makes its way through Parliament, it remains to be seen how the government will address these concerns and ensure that the legislation serves the best interests of India’s Muslim communities.
