JPC to Finalize Waqf Bill Draft Today
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Synopsis
The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) will meet today to finalize amendments to the Waqf Amendment Bill. The bill aims to reform Waqf Boards' administration amid political turmoil. Voting on changes will occur today after recent discussions.
Key Takeaways
- JPC to finalize Waqf Bill draft.
- 14 amendments approved by NDA members.
- 44 changes proposed by Opposition rejected.
- Voting on amendments to take place today.
- Waqf Bill aims to reform Waqf Board administration.
New Delhi, Jan 29 (NationPress) The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) examining the controversial Waqf Amendment Bill is scheduled to convene on Tuesday to finalize the amendments to the clauses that were deliberated upon on Monday. The final draft report of the JPC is anticipated to be published today.
On Monday, the JPC approved the Waqf Amendment Bill, incorporating 14 amendments suggested by members of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
Opposition members proposed 44 changes, all of which were dismissed, sparking outrage among political factions.
A voting session regarding the proposed changes will take place today.
The Waqf Amendment Bill, which aims to reform the administration of Waqf Boards nationwide, received clearance from the JPC with a tally of 16 in favor and 10 against (16 from NDA and 10 from Opposition).
Reports indicate that a total of 66 amendments were put forth in the Waqf Bill, consisting of 23 from ruling BJP MPs and 44 from the Opposition.
BJP MP and JPC chairman Jagdambika Pal stated to reporters on Monday that this was the final gathering of the committee, with 14 amendments approved based on majority consensus.
“During the past six months of discussions, numerous amendments were reviewed. All amendments were subjected to a vote today, with 16 members supporting them while 14 opposed,” he informed the press.
The JPC meetings have experienced tumultuous moments, with the Opposition accusing the committee chairman of favoritism towards the ruling party.
Additionally, the Opposition contended that the proceedings are being expedited to shape a narrative before the Assembly elections in the national Capital.
On Monday, 11 Opposition MPs in the JPC criticized the ‘autocratic’ actions of Chairman Jagdambika Pal and his rush in approving the 14 amendments proposed by NDA members.
In a collective statement, the Opposition MPs expressed, “As the committee reaches its conclusion in deliberations, we, the Opposition members, registered our protest on the spot against the chairman's handling of the JPC's proceedings and the significant deviations from established rules and protocols.”
Pointing out several instances where they were denied adequate time to review documents, the MPs emphasized their intention to bring attention to the deliberate disregard by the Chairman in sharing details of the committee’s deliberations.
However, BJP MP Aparajita Sarangi dismissed these allegations, asserting that every member received “sufficient time and was listened to by the JPC chairman.”
The JPC was initially required to submit its recommendations by November 29, but the deadline has been extended to February 13.
