Waqf Amendment Bill: Parliamentary Panel Report Sparks Controversy

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

The parliamentary panel will present its final report on the Waqf Amendment Bill in Lok Sabha on Monday.
Opposition leaders claim their dissent notes were redacted without consent.
The BJP-backed bill is facing criticism for allegedly weakening Waqf boards.
Congress and AIMIM leaders accuse the panel of suppressing opposition voices.
The BJP argues the bill aims to modernize and ensure transparency in Waqf property management.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Panel Report on Waqf Amendment Bill Triggers Uproar

The parliamentary committee reviewing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill is set to submit its final report to Lok Sabha on Monday. The move has sparked controversy, with opposition leaders alleging that sections of their dissent notes were redacted without their knowledge. Congress MP Syed Naseer Hussain and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi have strongly opposed these redactions, calling them an attempt to silence dissenting voices.

Opposition Voices Strong Discontent

Taking to social media, Owaisi stated, “I had submitted a detailed dissent note against the Waqf Bill. Shockingly, parts of my note were redacted without my consent. The removed sections were purely factual and not controversial.” Congress MP Hussain echoed similar sentiments, accusing the panel of censoring opposition opinions to push the bill forward without debate.

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BJP’s Justification for the Bill

On the other hand, BJP members defend the bill, stating that it seeks to modernize the management of Waqf properties and enhance transparency. They argue that the existing Waqf Act of 1995 has long been plagued by corruption, mismanagement, and illegal encroachments. According to them, the amendments will introduce stricter governance measures while preventing misuse of Waqf properties.

Final Report to be Presented in Lok Sabha

Panel chairman Jagdambika Pal, along with BJP MP Sanjay Jaiswal, will table the report in both Hindi and English versions in Lok Sabha. The panel had approved the report on January 29, passing it by a 15-11 vote. The submission is expected to intensify the ongoing debate as the Budget Session continues.

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Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

The parliamentary panel’s report on the Waqf Amendment Bill will be submitted in Lok Sabha on Monday.
Opposition claims that their dissent notes were edited without their consent.
The BJP maintains that the bill aims to ensure transparency in Waqf property management.
Congress and AIMIM leaders accuse the panel of suppressing opposition voices.
The debate over the bill’s final approval remains heated.