THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
New Delhi, Jan 29: The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf Amendment Bill finalized and adopted its draft report along with the revised bill on Wednesday. However, several opposition leaders strongly objected, submitting dissent notes against the proposed changes.
The report is set to be presented to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on January 30.
JPC Chairman Jagdambika Pal highlighted that, for the first time, a provision has been included to ensure Waqf benefits reach marginalized communities, including the poor, women, and orphans. He stated that the committee had reviewed 44 clauses, with 14 amendments proposed by members, which were adopted through a majority vote.
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Opposition alleges bias and rushed process
Opposition leaders criticized the process, arguing that the amendments undermine the essence of Waqf. AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi expressed strong opposition, asserting that the bill aligns with the BJP’s ideological stance and threatens the Waqf Board’s autonomy.
He also questioned the inclusion of non-Muslim members on a Muslim Waqf Board, emphasizing that religious institutions for Hindus, Sikhs, and Christians do not face similar provisions.
Owaisi further criticized the rushed proceedings, pointing out that members were given a 655-page draft report just a night before, making it nearly impossible to review thoroughly.
Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant also submitted dissent notes, with Sawant arguing that the amendments contradict constitutional principles.
DMK MP A Raja echoed concerns over the bill’s hurried adoption, further fueling opposition to the proposed changes.
