War of words over waqf bill as Parliament committee faces deadline

The committee set up to discuss the Waqf Amendment Bill has experienced a bitter war of words and political tussles from the outset.

According to sources, Thursday was no different, with several rounds of clashes erupting among members over the role of the Collector, the presence of a non-Muslim member on the board, and the statute of limitations on Waqf properties.

Those opposing the bill argued that the current provision allows anyone to challenge the status of Waqf properties. This could be problematic, particularly for vintage properties that are decades old and lack relevant documentation.

There was also strong opposition to the arbitrary powers granted to the Collector.

Sources reported that the meeting included a presentation by the Vice-Chancellor of Chanakya National Law University, representatives from Pasmanda Muslim groups, and members of the Muslim Personal Law



Board.

So far, the committee has received responses from various quarters across the country via email and post. Over 95,00,000 emails have been received online, all of which are being sifted through for feedback.

The committee has travelled to several cities, including Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Ahmednagar, to gather feedback and engage with stakeholders.

Tensions rose during the presentation by Faizan Mustafa, the Vice-Chancellor of Chanakya National Law University. Sources revealed that BJP MP Medha Kulkarni made interjections during his presentation but was repeatedly interrupted by opposition members.

One member said that the verbal duel escalated to the point where Kulkarni accused an opposition member of insulting her and demanded an apology. The situation became tense, and committee chairperson Jagdambika Pal had to intervene to restore order. However, the BJP MP insisted on a public apology.