BJP MP Seeks More Time for Parliamentary Panel on Waqf Bill

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey has requested an extension for the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf Amendment Bill.
Opposition MPs allege the committee chairperson, Jagdambika Pal, is pushing to complete proceedings by November 29.
The JPC has only met 25 times, with Opposition leaders arguing that more time is needed to hear from all stakeholders.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has suggested the possibility of an extension for the committee.
The situation could influence the upcoming Parliament sessions, especially the Budget session.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Waqf Amendment Bill and its Implications

The Waqf Amendment Bill, introduced on August 8, 2024, in the Lok Sabha, was designed to streamline the functioning of Waqf Boards and ensure better management of Waqf properties. However, it sparked controversy among Opposition parties and Muslim organizations, who expressed concerns that the bill could infringe upon the constitutional rights of the Muslim community. As a result, the bill was referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further scrutiny.

Opposition’s Concerns and Demand for More Time

Despite the JPC’s work, opposition MPs argue that the committee has not had enough time to hear from all relevant stakeholders. With only 25 meetings held so far, they have requested an extension to the committee’s tenure. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey raised this issue during a meeting, proposing that more time be allotted for the committee’s work. The Opposition argues that the current timeline, which ends on November 29, is insufficient to address the concerns surrounding the bill adequately.

The Walkout and Return of Opposition MPs

On the day of the meeting, several Opposition MPs, including Congress’ Gaurav Gogoi, DMK’s A Raja, and others, staged a walkout. They claimed that the committee’s proceedings were being rushed, and they were not being given adequate time to present their cases. However, shortly after the walkout, the MPs returned to the meeting, as there were signs that JPC Chairman Jagdambika Pal might consider extending the committee’s term.

The Possibility of Extending the Committee’s Term

Reports suggest that the JPC’s tenure could be extended until the first week of the Budget session next year, with a final decision to be made by the Lok Sabha. While some BJP allies have expressed reservations about the extension, it appears that the Speaker of the Lok Sabha is open to the idea, as it would allow for a more thorough review of the bill.

Political and Procedural Impacts

This issue has broader implications for both the government and the Opposition. If the committee’s tenure is not extended, the bill could be rushed through, potentially causing dissatisfaction among key stakeholders. Additionally, this development might influence future legislative actions and could impact the dynamics in the Parliament during the Budget session.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey has called for an extension for the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf Amendment Bill.
Opposition MPs have raised concerns about the committee’s rushed proceedings and inadequate time for stakeholder input.
The JPC has held only 25 meetings, prompting calls for more time to discuss the bill.
Lok Sabha Speaker has suggested an extension, though no final decision has been made.
The outcome of this issue could impact the upcoming Parliament sessions and the Budget session.