JPC on Waqf Bill seeks extension for comprehensive consultations

New Delhi: Opposition members of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf Amendment Bill have called on Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to extend the committee's tenure, citing the need for more thorough consultations and deliberations on the bill.

In a letter to the Speaker, the members requested a reasonable extension, highlighting the limited progress made since the committee's first meeting on August 22, 2024. Despite holding 25 sittings, the committee has yet to hear from several state governments, including those from Bihar, New Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, several representative stakeholder organisations are still seeking time to present their views.

The letter emphasized that the Waqf Amendment Bill proposes significant changes to existing laws that will impact a large section of India's population. The members expressed concern that the current three-month time frame before the report is finalized is insufficient for proper consultation, which could lead to inadequate or improper recommendations.

They also pointed out that rushing through the legislative process without adequate public participation undermines the legitimacy of Parliament and the legislative framework as a whole.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 8, 2024, has generated significant debate and was referred to the JPC headed by Jagdambika Pal for further discussions. The committee is engaging with various stakeholders, and its work is expected to continue.

The Waqf Bill seeks to reform the management of Waqf properties, though some provisions have sparked criticism.

The members concluded their letter by urging the Speaker to consider their request in the interest of upholding the integrity of the legislative process.

With IANS inputs