Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 Reintroduced in Lok Sabha: Heated Debate Erupts Between Government and Opposition

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 was reintroduced in Lok Sabha on Wednesday, leading to a contentious debate between the Centre and the Opposition. Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju tabled the bill for discussion and approval, amid ongoing protests by opposition parties who have labelled it “unconstitutional.”

The bill seeks to amend the Waqf Act of 1995, with the stated goal of improving the governance and management of Waqf properties across India.

Background: JPC Review and Previous Uproar

Initially introduced last year, the bill was referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) headed by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal after pushback from the Opposition. The committee reviewed public feedback and provided recommendations.

Key Government Statements in Support of the Bill

Kiren Rijiju, Union Minority Affairs Minister:

Over 97 lakh petitions and suggestions were received and carefully reviewed, both online and in person.

The bill does not interfere with any religious practices, nor with the management of mosques, temples, or any place of worship.

Rijiju cited a 1970 case where the Delhi Waqf Board claimed key government properties, including the Parliament building, as Waqf land. He stated that such instances underscore the need for reform to protect public properties.

“If we had not introduced this amendment today, even the Parliament building could have been claimed as Waqf property,” he emphasized.

Amit Shah, Union Home Minister:

Defended the committee's review process, stating that it was transparent and democratic, unlike previous governments.

Criticized the Congress-era process, claiming that committees used to rubber-stamp decisions rather than engage in true deliberation.

Opposition Criticism of the Bill

Congress MP KC Venugopal:

Accused the government of bulldozing the bill through Parliament without giving MPs sufficient time to suggest amendments.

Expressed concern over lack of consultation and called for proper debate and time allocation for legislative scrutiny.

“This type of bill... at least the members have to have the power to give amendments. There is no time at all,” Venugopal said.

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