New Delhi: In the heart of India’s legislative hub, a contentious debate unfolded as the Waqf Amendment Bill was tabled in the Lok Sabha, sparking fiery exchanges between the ruling party and the opposition. At the center of the argument was Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who vociferously criticized the UPA government for past changes to Waqf laws, including the denotification of key properties.
Rijiju’s assertions were met with skepticism by the opposition, which labeled the proposed legislation as “draconian.” The bill, designed to overhaul the administration of Muslim charitable properties known as Waqfs, has been a point of contention. It includes provisions to ensure secular and inclusive management, sparking heated political exchanges.
The debate kicked off with Rijiju accusing the Congress of questionable actions, including transferring 123 properties to the Waqf Board. He pointed out that without the current amendment, significant structures, including the Parliament building itself, could have been claimed as Waqf properties. Rijiju emphasized that the bill is primarily a property management issue, with the aim of enhancing transparency and efficiency in Waqf boards.
Among the proposed changes are the inclusion of non-Muslim and female members on Waqf boards to ensure a more inclusive and secular approach. However, these provisions have been met with resistance from opposition parties, who argue that the bill infringes upon constitutional rights. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi criticized specific clauses, such as restrictions on donations to Waqf boards, which he saw as problematic and overly restrictive.
The bill’s journey through the Joint Parliamentary Committee was marked by controversy, with 14 changes suggested by BJP or allied party MPs being adopted. Originally, the draft proposed 44 changes, including the addition of non-Muslim and female members to Waqf boards.
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