Opposition Stirs Controversy Over Waqf Bill Report in Parliament

Opposition MPs criticize the joint committee's report on the Waqf Bill, claiming it targets religious land and censors dissent notes. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defends the redactions, citing procedural rules. The controversy led to a heated debate, adjournments, and an opposition walkout in the Rajya Sabha.

Opposition MPs have voiced strong criticism over the joint committee on the Waqf Bill, arguing that the report could lead to targeting land from diverse religious groups. In the parliamentary uproar on Thursday, MPs accused the committee of censoring critical dissent notes provided by opposition members.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the redaction of certain portions of the dissent notes, asserting that the action was consistent with procedural rules. Despite his assurances, the report stirred a heated debate in the Rajya Sabha, leading to the House's temporary adjournment and an opposition walkout.

Opposition members, including Congress' Syed Nasir Hussain and TMC's Nadimul Haque, pointedly criticized the report, alleging it was biased and warning of potential future repercussions for properties of various religious bodies. They emphasized that transparency in the committee's proceedings was severely lacking, and key stakeholder input was overlooked.

(With inputs from agencies.)