On February 13, 2025, the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) presented its report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in both houses of Parliament, igniting substantial protests from opposition members. The dissent centered on allegations that the report omitted critical dissenting notes submitted by opposition MPs, leading to accusations of bias and undemocratic practices.
In the Rajya Sabha, BJP member Medha Vishram Kulkarni tabled the report amidst considerable uproar. Opposition leaders contended that their dissenting opinions were conspicuously absent from the final document. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju refuted these claims, asserting that all dissent notes had been duly incorporated. Despite his assurances, the session was temporarily adjourned due to the escalating commotion.
Upon reconvening, opposition figures, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, expressed deep dissatisfaction. Kharge criticized the report as “fake” and called for its withdrawal and reconsideration. He emphasized the importance of including dissenting views to uphold democratic principles.
In the Lok Sabha, JPC Chairman and BJP MP Jagadambika Pal presented the report, which was met with immediate objections from opposition members. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi highlighted the impracticality of reviewing a 655-page report overnight and criticized the lack of thorough clause-by-clause discussions. He questioned the committee’s adherence to standard procedures and transparency.
AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi labeled the bill as unconstitutional, arguing that it violates Articles 14, 15, and 29 of the Indian Constitution. He contended that the bill threatens the integrity of Waqf properties and undermines the rights of the Muslim community.
In response, Minister Rijiju maintained that the report was comprehensive and transparent. He clarified that while dissenting notes were included, any content casting aspersions on the committee was subject to removal by the chairman, in accordance with parliamentary rules. Rijiju urged members to address specific concerns directly with the chairman rather than dismissing the entire report as unconstitutional.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, introduced in Parliament last year, seeks to address longstanding challenges in regulating Waqf properties. Proposed changes include renaming the Act, updating the definition of Waqf, streamlining the registration process, and incorporating technology for improved record management.
The JPC, led by Chairman Jagadambika Pal, conducted extensive consultations over six months before finalizing the report. Despite these efforts, the opposition remains dissatisfied, alleging that their perspectives were disregarded. The controversy has led to heightened tensions within Parliament, with opposition members demanding a more inclusive and transparent legislative process.
As the debate continues, the government faces increasing pressure to address the concerns raised by opposition parties. The situation underscores the challenges inherent in navigating complex legislative reforms within a diverse and pluralistic society.
The unfolding events highlight the critical importance of maintaining democratic principles, ensuring inclusivity, and fostering open dialogue in the legislative process. The government’s response to these challenges will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Waqf property regulation in India.
