The Joint Parliamentary Committee reviewing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill has been inundated with approximately eight lakh petitions from the public and various institutions. This significant volume of feedback highlights the intense scrutiny and debate surrounding the proposed amendments. The committee held its third meeting on September 5, 2024, to discuss the implications of the legislation with officials from multiple ministries.
Controversy Over Proposed Waqf Bill Amendments
During the meeting, the Ministry of Urban Affairs presented arguments in favor of the amendments, asserting that they would reduce litigation related to Waqf properties. The Ministry highlighted historical context, noting that the British government had compensated for 341 square kilometers of land during the establishment of the new capital. However, the Waqf Board's claims on 138 properties in New Delhi between 1970 and 1977 had led to extended legal disputes.
Despite these claims, committee members contested the Ministry's position. All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) MP Asaduddin Owaisi criticized the Ministry's stance, arguing that properties cannot be arbitrarily designated as Waqf without comprehensive evidence. He emphasized the need for verifiable proof for any property claimed as Waqf and voiced concerns about the Ministry’s attempt to undermine such claims.
Historical Oversight and Opposition Concerns
DMK MP A. Raja pointed out a notable omission in the Ministry's presentation: the Waqf Act's passage in 1913 was not mentioned. Raja and other opposition members questioned the government's claims over historic properties, including mosques that have existed since the 17th century. These concerns were compounded by BJP MP Medha Vishram Kulkarni's request for a detailed list of all mazars (shrines or tombs) across India, particularly those predating the 7th century CE, when Islam is historically recorded as arriving in India.
Discrepancies in Land Use Data
The Ministry of Urban Affairs reported that approximately nine lakh acres of land fall under the Waqf category. However, this figure was challenged by committee members, who demanded a detailed breakdown. Concerns were raised that more than seven lakh acres might be allocated for burial grounds and around one lakh acres for mosques. The members stressed the necessity for precise data to understand the true usage of the land.
Meeting Schedule and Procedural Disputes
The committee's intense schedule, with meetings held twice a week, has sparked criticism from opposition members. They expressed frustration over the tight timeline, which they feel impedes thorough analysis of public and governmental submissions. There was even a consideration of a walkout in protest, although members ultimately chose to remain engaged in the discussions. Concerns were also raised about the possibility of escalating the issue to the Lok Sabha Speaker if the meeting schedule remains unchanged.
Conclusion
The Joint Parliamentary Committee's examination of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill is marked by significant public and institutional engagement, with eight lakh petitions reflecting the high stakes of the proposed amendments. The debate highlights critical issues such as historical property claims, land use data, and procedural challenges, underscoring the complexity and contentious nature of the legislative review process. As the committee continues its work, the resolution of these issues will be pivotal in shaping the future of Waqf property management in India.
This article was written by Rishabh Srivastava, a first-year LL.B student at New Law College, Bharati Vidyapeeth, Pune.
Post a Comment