The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is set to convene amidst rising political tensions and ongoing debates over the bill’s implications. Opposition members have requested an extension of the committee’s tenure from Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, citing the need for further deliberations on this contentious legislation.
The Winter Session of Parliament, which commenced earlier this week, has already been marred by disruptions. In the Rajya Sabha, opposition members demanded discussions on bribery allegations involving the Adani Group, leading to repeated adjournments. Similarly, protests in the Lok Sabha forced Speaker Om Birla to adjourn proceedings after paying tribute through obituary references.
The bill has drawn sharp political and community reactions. BJP leader V Muraleedharan criticised the Congress and CPM, accusing them of double standards. “While they support Christian and fishermen communities protesting land rights in Kerala, they oppose rightful property authority in Delhi,” he remarked. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi raised constitutional concerns, asserting that the bill undermines Article 26 and weakens Waqf Boards instead of addressing their issues.
The JPC has been actively reviewing the bill, consulting six ministries and over 195 organisations. Approximately 95 lakh public suggestions have been submitted, highlighting widespread interest in the reforms.
The proposed amendments to the Waqf Act, 1995, aim to digitise property records, enforce stricter audits, and introduce transparency to combat corruption and encroachments. While advocates see the bill as a step toward accountability, critics argue it risks centralising control and disregarding constitutional safeguards. The debate underscores the complexity of balancing community interests with governance reforms.
