5 Crore Responses Flood Waqf Bill JPC

Over 5 crore responses received on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. A new controversy has erupted in the Indian political landscape. The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) received a staggering number of feedback responses regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, capturing widespread attention. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey has sought an investigation into the 1.35 crore responses, hinting at possible involvement from China or Pakistan’s ISI. Meanwhile, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) claims that the Muslim community has submitted 5 crore suggestions against the bill.

On August 8, the government introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha, aiming to streamline the operations of the Waqf Board and ensure effective management of Waqf properties. Opposition parties and Muslim organizations expressed concerns, claiming that the bill is targeted against the community.

In August, the JPC invited views from the public, NGOs, experts, and stakeholders regarding the proposed changes to the Waqf law. A window of 15 days was provided for feedback submissions.

Controversy Over Response Numbers
Nishikant Dubey has written to JPC Chairman Jagdambika Pal, requesting the Union Home Ministry to investigate the origin of this feedback. He stated that such a large number of submissions is “unprecedented” and has set a global record for legislative submissions.

AIMPLB spokesperson SQR Ilyas has dismissed the reported number of 1.25 crore responses as an understatement, stating, “We sent approximately 3.7 crore responses through the AIMPLB.”

Is This An Organized Campaign?
Nishikant Dubey alleged that a significant portion of the feedback appears to be part of an organized campaign. The AIMPLB argues that the suggestions were submitted by scanning QR codes. They have also mentioned that they maintain a record of all feedback sent on their behalf.

The overwhelming responses received by the JPC indicate substantial opposition within the Muslim community regarding amendments to the Waqf law. Dubey’s claims were dismissed as “absurd talk” by AIMPLB, further intensifying the political tug-of-war on this issue.