Opposition MPs Clash with Govt Over Waqf Board Bill
Lok Sabha on Wednesday took up discussion on the Waqf Board Amendment Bill (Image credit Sansad TV)
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By TRH News Desk
New Delhi, April 2: A heated debate erupted in the Lok Sabha as Opposition MPs clashed with the government over the Waqf Board Amendment Bill. The Opposition argued that the proposed legislation could have far-reaching consequences.
Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju introduced the bill. It aims to amend existing Waqf laws. The bill aims to enhance transparency and streamline the functioning of Waqf properties.
However, Opposition leaders accused the government of attempting to centralize control over Waqf boards and diminishing the rights of minority communities.
During the discussion, Opposition leaders voiced concerns over “overreach” by the government into the administration of religious trusts. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor stated, “This bill is not just about governance—it is about control. It seeks to undermine the autonomy of Waqf boards and threatens the religious freedoms enshrined in our Constitution.”
Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra lashed out at the government, alleging that the bill was another step towards targeting minority institutions. “If transparency was truly the concern, why isn’t the same standard applied to all religious trusts? Why single out the Waqf Board?” she questioned.
Rijiju defended the bill, stating that the government’s intention was to “ensure proper management and prevent misuse of Waqf properties.” He stressed that the bill was not an attack on any community but a step for greater accountability.
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However, Opposition MPs sought that the bill be sent to a parliamentary committee for further scrutiny. AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi warned that passing the bill in its current form would lead to “unprecedented centralization of power” over Waqf properties and could be challenged legally.
The debate saw disruptions and heated exchanges, prompting Speaker Om Birla to intervene multiple times to restore order.
As the discussion continues, political analysts predict that the debate on the Waqf Board Bill could shape broader electoral narratives, particularly among minority communities ahead of upcoming state elections.
The government, meanwhile, remains adamant that the bill is necessary for reforms and transparency. The final decision on the bill’s fate now rests on whether amendments proposed by the Opposition will be accommodated or if the ruling party will push it through with its parliamentary majority.
The government is assured of a united NDA support for the bill. The government may have to work numbers in the Rajya Sabha.
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