New Delhi: The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) convened on Thursday to discuss the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, amidst heated debates and opposition concerns over potential violations of religious freedoms and constitutional rights. The meeting, held at the Parliament House Annexe, was chaired by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal and marked the first formal session of the 31-member committee.
Officials from the ministries of minority affairs and law briefed the committee members on the proposed amendments to the Waqf Bill. These amendments have sparked controversy, with opposition MPs raising alarms about potential infringements on religious freedom, equality, and Article 26 of the Indian Constitution.
Muslim MPs in particular voiced their objections to the inclusion of local District Magistrates (DMs) and non-minority members in the Waqf Tribunal, arguing that such measures could undermine the autonomy and religious significance of Waqf properties. The inclusion of non-minority members, they argued, could lead to decisions that do not align with the cultural and religious context of the Waqf.
Jagdambika Pal, in his opening remarks, assured the committee that a detailed discussion on the bill would take place, and that all concerns would be addressed. “The committee will hear all stakeholders, and we will take up all 44 proposed amendments for discussion. Our goal is to bring forth a comprehensive and balanced bill in the next session,” Pal stated.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 8 August, and after a brief debate, it was referred to the JPC for further deliberation. The government, while presenting the bill, asserted that the proposed amendments would not interfere with the functioning of mosques or other Waqf properties. However, opposition parties have accused the government of using the bill as a tool to target the Muslim community, labelling it an attack on the Constitution.
The JPC is expected to submit its report by the end of the first week of the upcoming winter session, following extensive discussions and consultations with relevant stakeholders. As the committee continues its work, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill remains a contentious issue, with significant implications for religious and constitutional freedoms in India.
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