In an exclusive interview with The Indian Express, Nishikant Dubey discusses the proceedings of the Joint Committee of Parliament on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and addresses allegations made by the opposition regarding the handling of the committee. Dubey, a member of the panel, defends the committee's decisions and criticizes the opposition for their lack of understanding of the Bill's purpose. He also highlights the importance of bringing the Muslim community into the mainstream and the role of the BJP in this effort.
Waqf (Amendment) Bill: Background and Current Status
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on July 29, 2014, by the then Minister of Minority Affairs, Najma Heptulla. The Bill sought to amend the Waqf Act, 1995, which governs the management of waqf properties in India.
Purpose of the Amendment Bill
The main objective of the Amendment Bill was to bring transparency and accountability in the administration of waqf properties. It sought to:
Controversies and Opposition
The Amendment Bill has faced criticism from some sections of the Muslim community, opposition parties, and civil society groups. They have raised concerns about:
Current Proceedings
The Bill was referred to a Joint Committee of Parliament (JCP) for further scrutiny. The JCP, headed by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, submitted its report in February 2023. The report recommended some amendments to the original Bill, including:
The amended Bill is expected to be tabled in the Lok Sabha for further discussion and passage.
Top 5 FAQs on Waqf (Amendment) Bill
1. What is the purpose of the Waqf Amendment Bill? To bring transparency and accountability in the management of waqf properties.
2. What are the main provisions of the Amendment Bill? Establishment of a Central Waqf Council, appointment of Waqf Development Officers, and penalties for misuse of waqf properties.
3. Why has the Amendment Bill faced opposition? Concerns about centralization of waqf management, potential misuse to target Muslim-owned properties, and lack of representation of Muslim stakeholders.
4. What is the current status of the Amendment Bill? The Bill is under consideration by a Joint Committee of Parliament, which has recommended some amendments.
5. When is the amended Bill expected to be passed? After further discussion and passage in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
India pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on January 30, marking the day he was assassinated in 1948 while on his way to a prayer meeting. This day is observed as Martyrs' Day to honor all those who sacrificed their lives for the country's independence. Political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pay their respects to Gandhi's legacy and the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters and citizens for India's sovereignty. Gandhi's ideals of truth and non-violence continue to inspire efforts towards building a developed India and promoting global movements for justice, peace, and human rights.
Following a deadly stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, the state government has introduced five major changes, including declaring the entire fair area a No-Vehicle Zone. The tragedy occurred on one of the most auspicious days of the Kumbh Mela as millions of pilgrims tried to reach the holy waters for a sacred dip. The changes include canceling VVIP passes, implementing one-way routes, restricting vehicle entry, and enforcing strict measures until February 4. To strengthen crowd management efforts, IAS officers Ashish Goyal and Bhanu Goswami, who successfully managed the 2019 Ardh Kumbh, have been directed to reach Prayagraj immediately.
Ahead of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a local community comes together to honor the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement leader. Speakers from the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and the NWA MLK Council discuss King's impact and encourage others to take action in their own communities. As we continue to remember and honor King, his words and dream continue to hold power and inspire progress for all.
In a tragic incident at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, a stampede led to the death of 30 people and injuries to over 90 others. The UP government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh to the kin of the deceased. Adityanath has also formed a three-member commission, headed by former Justice of the Allahabad High Court, to investigate the incident and suggest measures to prevent such accidents in the future. While the government has started rescue operations, questions are being raised about the cause of the stampede.
After the conclusion of the 76th Republic Day celebrations, the iconic Beating Retreat ceremony took place at Vijaya Chowk in New Delhi. The synchronized performances by the personnel of three armed forces and Central Armed Police Forces, along with the 30 foot-tapping tunes played by the bands, left the audience mesmerized. President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other dignitaries were present to witness the ceremony, which marked the end of the Republic Day festivities in India.
Following a stampede-like situation at the Maha Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made an urgent appeal to devotees to avoid bathing at the Triveni Sangam on Mauni Amavasya. He also spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi twice in an hour, receiving directive to provide immediate relief to those affected. As thousands are gathered for the holy dip, this advisory and response from the CM and PM is critical in managing the situation and ensuring the safety of the devotees.
Shahid Sayeed, National Convener of Muslim Rashtriya Manch, praises the Joint Parliamentary Committee for approving the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024. He declares that the bill will greatly contribute towards fulfilling the needs of the marginalized communities and strengthening their position in society. Sayeed hopes that the bill will pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Amidst reports of a stampede-like situation at the Mahakumbh mela in Prayagraj, with at least 15 feared dead and 35 injured, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are keeping a close eye on the situation. CM Yogi has appealed to devotees to remain calm and not rush towards the river, while also assuring that all ghats are Ganga ghats for the holy dip. The auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya has caused a massive influx of Hindus to the festival, leading to the cancellation and later, the resumption of holy baths by the ‘akhadas’ and devotees.
The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) will meet today to vote on the final amendments to the controversial Waqf Amendment Bill. The JPC had already approved the bill with 14 amendments proposed by the ruling NDA, while rejecting 44 proposed changes by the Opposition. The JPC chairman, BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, defended the committee's decision and stated that all amendments were put to vote and a majority of 16 voted in favor of the bill. However, the Opposition has raised objections and accused the chairman of bias and rushing the proceedings ahead of Assembly elections in the national capital.