The BJP-led federal government submitted the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, amending the Waqf Act of 1995. It was proposed by Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju. Chaotic scenes followed in the House as the opposition resisted the passage of the Bill.
The opposition contested the Bill’s passage, resulting in chaotic scenes in the House.
SP chief Akhilesh Yadav while slamming the Waqf Bill said, “I have heard in lobby that this Govt is snatching your rights also. We will fight for you.”
Responding to this, union home minister Amit Shah hit out saying, “Speaker’s rights are not just yours but of the entire house. You are not any Rights Custodian.”
Opposition parties argue that the measures seek to deprive the Muslim minority of its property, assets, and the “freedom to manage religious affairs” provided by Article 26 of the Indian Constitution.
The opposition parties had earlier requested that the contentious law be sent to the parliamentary standing committee for additional discussions prior to being considered for passage by the Treasury Bench.
On Wednesday, the Finance Bill 2024, tabled in the Lok Sabha by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for the fiscal year 2024-2025, was cleared by the House.
The session began on July 22 and is set to expire on August 12, unless adjourned sine die.
What is the controversial Waqf Bill?
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aims to “effectively address issues” concerning the authority of State Waqf Boards, registration and survey of waqf properties, and encroachment clearance. The Bill also recommends that all Waqf properties be registered with the District Collector’s Office so that they can be evaluated.
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Source: HT
