Priyanka Tiwari
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The marathon debate on the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday witnessed heated exchanges between the Treasury and Opposition benches. While the discussion primarily focused on the Bill's provisions, a moment of personal confrontation sparked chaos in the House.
Congress Protests Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh Leaving During Voting
Tempers flared when Congress MPs noticed Union Ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh leaving the chamber during the crucial clause-by-clause voting process. Congress MP KC Venugopal accused the House of applying double standards, questioning how the two senior leaders could exit when members were restricted from leaving once the lobby was sealed.
Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi also weighed in, urging Speaker Om Birla to ensure the sanctity of the voting process.
Congress Faces Embarrassment Amid Protests
The Congress's protest backfired when its own Deputy Leader of Opposition, Gaurav Gogoi, returned to the chamber from outside, undermining their argument. The situation escalated further when another Congress MP, Imran Masood, also walked in during the voting session.
This turn of events drew laughter and sarcastic jibes from BJP MPs, who pointed out the inconsistencies in the Opposition's stand.
Speaker Clarifies: Washrooms Part of the 'Lobby' in New Parliament
Speaker Om Birla addressed the uproar, clarifying that there was no violation of procedure. He explained that under the architecture of the new Parliament building, the “lobby” now includes corridors and washrooms.
“Not a single door of the lobby was opened. The washroom is considered part of the lobby to accommodate young and elderly members,” said the Speaker, dismissing claims of any procedural breach.
Congress and BJP Face Flak from Non-Aligned MPs
Beyond the walkout drama, the Congress also faced criticism from non-Congress MPs who opposed the Bill. Rajasthan MP Hanuman Beniwal of the Rashtriya Loktantrik Party argued that the Congress failed to prioritize Muslim welfare, despite having 11 MPs from a state rich in Waqf properties.
Meanwhile, Independent MP from Kashmir, Engineer Rashid—attending the session on parole—stated:
“The BJP may confront Muslims openly, but the Congress stabs them under the guise of secularism.”
Government Defends Bill, Opposition Labels It Interference
Throughout the hours-long debate, the ruling NDA strongly defended the Waqf Amendment Bill as beneficial for minority welfare. The Opposition, however, described it as an unwarranted intrusion into religious affairs, aimed at centralizing control.
Despite emotional appeals and sharp criticism, the numbers favored the ruling party, making the Bill’s passage almost certain in both Houses of Parliament.
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