Delhi, January 27: The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on Monday approved changes to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, with discussions concluding on all 44 proposed amendments. JPC Chairman Jagdambika Pal stated that 14 suggestions from NDA MPs were accepted during the meeting. While opposition members presented proposals, these were rejected during voting.
The committee is expected to present its report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill during the Budget Session of Parliament. The committee’s term, initially set for the Winter Session, was extended to allow for a thorough review of the bill. The Waqf Act of 1995, which governs the management of waqf properties, has faced criticism for alleged mismanagement, corruption, and encroachments.
Jagdambika Pal remarked that the approved amendments aim to make the legislation more robust and effective. However, opposition members criticised the proceedings, accusing the chair of undermining democratic principles.
TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee described the committee meetings as “absurd,” claiming opposition voices were ignored. He accused Pal of adopting an autocratic approach. Responding to these allegations, Pal defended the process, asserting that all decisions were made democratically, with the majority’s opinion prevailing.
The amendments are intended to address long-standing issues in the management of waqf properties, though the opposition’s dissatisfaction suggests continued debate when the bill is tabled in Parliament.
