Controversy Erupts Over Waqf Amendment Bill JPC Report

Congress MP Pramod Tiwari has called for a pause and review of the Joint Parliamentary Committee's report on the Waqf Amendment Bill, criticizing its rejection of Opposition suggestions. BJP's Jagadambika Pal stated the report includes dissenting notes following extensive national consultations. The report is set to be presented in Parliament.

In a fresh political controversy, Congress MP Pramod Tiwari on Thursday demanded a halt and reevaluation of the Joint Parliamentary Committee's (JPC) report on the Waqf Amendment Bill. Tiwari lambasted the report for dismissing all recommendations from the Opposition, arguing it essentially represents the government's stance.

Echoing similar concerns, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi claimed the report embodies constitutional neglect, while criticizing the political motivations behind the amendment. Despite existing legislation managing Waqf properties, Gogoi accused the government of exploiting the amendments for political gain, sidelining effective implementation of the current act.

Meanwhile, BJP's Jagadambika Pal, the JPC Chairman, declared that the committee will present its report in Parliament following six months of national consultations. He acknowledged the inclusion of dissenting notes in the appendix, alongside stakeholder records. The report was officially submitted to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on January 30, 2025, marking the culmination of a comprehensive review process.