Opposition Set to Approach Lok Sabha Speaker Over Waqf Bill Panel Dispute

Delhi, October 14 ,2024 :- Opposition members of parliament boycotted a key parliamentary committee meeting on Monday, citing concerns over the panel’s adherence to proper rules and regulations. The meeting was convened to examine the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, but opposition leaders expressed dissatisfaction with the way it was conducted.
Prominent opposition figures, including Congress’s Gaurav Gogoi and Imran Masood, DMK’s A. Raja, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Arvind Sawant, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, Samajwadi Party’s Mohibullah, and AAP’s Sanjay Singh, walked out of the session in protest. They raised concerns about the committee’s procedures and accused the government of not being transparent in its intentions.
In a joint statement, the opposition leaders declared, “When a meeting is called while ignoring the rules and regulations, there is no question of participating in such proceedings.” The opposition further stressed that their concerns stem from doubts about the government’s approach towards the Waqf Bill.
Addressing the media, Arvind Sawant stated that the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) tasked with reviewing the bill was not following established protocols. He reiterated that the opposition’s protest was based on procedural lapses.
In addition to procedural concerns, some MPs alleged that personal accusations were made against senior opposition leaders, such as Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, by individuals appearing before the committee. This further fueled the opposition’s decision to boycott the session.
Following their walkout, the opposition members convened a separate meeting to discuss their future course of action. Several members suggested that they would raise their concerns with the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Meanwhile, the JPC, chaired by veteran BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, continued its proceedings despite the opposition’s absence.
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind’s Engagement with Waqf Committee
Earlier, a delegation from Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, led by Maulana Mahmood A. Madani, met with the Joint Parliamentary Committee to present their concerns regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024. Senior Advocate Rauf Rahim provided a detailed legal analysis, focusing on the potential constitutional implications of the bill and its impact on Waqf properties and the rights of Muslims.
Opposition Plans Further Action
The opposition MPs have decided to approach the Speaker of the Lok Sabha to formally present their grievances regarding the functioning of the JPC on the Waqf Bill, seeking a resolution to their concerns about the panel’s conduct.