GOVT, OPPN SPAR OVER WAQF REFORMS, BILL GOES TO JPC

The Bill seeks to "effectively address issues" related to the powers of the state Waqf Boards, registration and survey of waqf properties and removal of encroachments.

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The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to “effectively address” issues related to the powers of the State Waqf Boards, registration and survey of waqf properties and removal of encroachments, was introduced in Lok Sabha on Thursday.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which amends the Waqf Act, 1995, was introduced by Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.

Rijijiu agreed to the suggestions for further scrutiny of the Bill by a parliamentary committee.

“We are not running away anywhere. So, if this has to be referred to any committee, I would like to speak on behalf of my government- a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) be formed, this Bill be referred to it and detailed discussion be held,” he said.

Rijijiu gave a detailed reply to the points raised by Opposition parties and said the government was acting on recommendations made by a panel constituted when the Congress-led UPA government was in power.