Waqf Bill Set for Approval Today, Promises Benefits for Muslims: JPC Chair
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Synopsis
Jagdambika Pal, Chairman of the JPC, confirms the Waqf (Amendment) Bill will pass today, providing significant advantages for the Muslim community. He criticizes the Opposition for creating division with unfounded claims about the bill's impact.
Key Takeaways
- Waqf (Amendment) Bill scheduled for passage today.
- Expected to benefit Muslims, especially the poor and Pasmanda community.
- Opposition accused of spreading misinformation.
- Pal calls previous amendments a constitutional breach.
- Government's commitment to inclusive development emphasized.
New Delhi, April 2 (NationPress) Jagdambika Pal, the Chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, has confirmed that the bill is scheduled for passage in Parliament today, which will provide substantial advantages to the Muslim community. He charged the Opposition with creating division among the populace through unfounded allegations about the bill's potential consequences.
In an interview with IANS, Pal remarked, “We have dedicated six months, tirelessly, to compile a comprehensive report on this bill. The Opposition has made various claims, alleging that it aims to secure votes in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. Yet, in spite of these unfounded assertions, the bill will be enacted today.”
Highlighting the bill's benefits, he stated, “This legislation will support the underprivileged, the Pasmanda community, and other ordinary Muslims who have not previously reaped these benefits. There were instances in the past where Waqf properties were improperly sold; however, Waqf properties are not for sale. Such actions were taken by caretakers for personal gain.”
Pal further condemned previous amendments enacted during the Congress-led UPA government.
He pointed out that the changes made during the UPA's time “empowered the Waqf to claim any property as theirs,” which he deemed a violation of Article 14, Article 19, Article 21, and Article 300A of the Constitution.
“Today, we are rectifying this. This bill aligns with the Constitution,” the JPC head stated.
Taking a jab at Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, for opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill without thorough comprehension, Pal asked, “Does Rahul Gandhi understand what is constitutional and unconstitutional? He should at least attempt to read this bill before labeling it unconstitutional. When Kiren Rijiju has assured that every question will receive a response, why doesn’t he engage in discussion instead of confrontation?”
He further underscored the government's pledge to inclusive development, declaring, “The Prime Minister and the government's vision is 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.' Today, initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, the ₹6000 under the Kisan Samman Nidhi, and the Saugat-e-Modi scheme during Eid have all been extended to Muslims as well. The Opposition seeks to foster division.”
