Chennithala Applauds Referral of Waqf Amendment Bill to Joint Parliamentary Committee

Ramesh Chennithala supports the central government’s decision to refer the Waqf Amendment Bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee, emphasizing the protection of minority rights. The bill, introduced without prior consultation, will now undergo detailed discussions, with the aim of ensuring accountability, transparency, and justice in its provisions.

Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has expressed support for the central government's decision to refer the Waqf Amendment Bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee. Chennithala emphasized the importance of safeguarding minority rights, stating, 'It's positive that a Joint Parliamentary Committee has been formed; this will allow for necessary discussions.'

On August 9, a Joint Parliamentary Committee was established to review the Waqf Amendment Bill. Comprised of 21 members from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha, the committee will ensure thorough examination of the bill. Union Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal highlighted the bill's objective to enhance accountability, transparency, and justice.

According to Meghwal, the amendments aim to ensure that justice prevails, similar to past amendments in 1995 and 2013. He refuted claims that the government operates on the basis of religion, contending that the agenda is purely focused on justice and inclusive development. On August 8, Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which faced strong opposition from various parties over concerns of federalism and constitutional principles.

(With inputs from agencies.)