Mon Jan 27 07:51:29 UTC 2025: ## Controversial Waqf Amendment Bill Clears Key Hurdle Amidst Opposition Claims of Bias

**New Delhi, January 27, 2025** – The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) has approved the Waqf Amendment Bill, paving the way for significant changes in the management of Muslim charitable properties. The bill, which proposes 44 amendments to the existing Waqf Act, cleared the committee with 14 alterations after a contentious six-month review process.

While the JPC, chaired by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, accepted 14 amendments, all proposed by the opposition were rejected along party lines. The committee’s composition, with a 16-10 BJP-to-opposition MP ratio, heavily influenced the outcome. The final acceptance of these 14 changes will be voted on January 29, with the final report due January 31.

The bill’s passage has been marred by accusations of bias against the chair by opposition MPs, who claim the process was manipulated to favor the ruling BJP. Ten opposition MPs were even suspended at one point for protesting the perceived lack of transparency and insufficient time to review proposed changes. These suspensions prompted a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, expressing concern over the fairness of the proceedings.

The contentious amendments include provisions for non-Muslim and women members on Waqf boards, restructuring the central Waqf Council to include non-Muslim members, and preventing the council from claiming land. The bill also includes a clause restricting donations from Muslims who have not practiced their faith for at least five years, a provision that has sparked further controversy.

Supporters argue the changes aim to empower Muslim women and children, while critics, including prominent opposition figures, contend the bill infringes upon religious freedom and violates constitutional rights, specifically Articles 15 and 30. Fierce debates and even physical altercations have marked the JPC meetings, highlighting the deep divisions surrounding the bill. The final vote next week is expected to be highly consequential and further fuel the ongoing debate.

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