The West Bengal Assembly passed a resolution urging the withdrawal of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 in Parliament. BJP legislators staged a walkout during the discussion on the resolution, opposing it. Minister Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, who moved the resolution, stated that the bill, if passed, will have a negative impact on Waqf administration in the country. However, Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari argued that the resolution was a waste of time as a Joint Parliamentary Committee had been formed to examine the bill, and its term has been extended till 2025.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 and Opposition from West Bengal
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, introduced in Parliament, has sparked controversy and drawn opposition from the West Bengal Assembly.
Background
Waqf properties are religious endowments in Islam, typically administered by boards appointed by state governments. The Waqf Act of 1995 governs the management and administration of these properties.
Government's Rationale for Amendment
The government has proposed amendments to the Waqf Act with the stated aim of improving transparency and accountability in Waqf administration. The amendments include:
Opposition's Concerns
The West Bengal Assembly and other critics have raised concerns that the amendments:
West Bengal Assembly Resolution
On February 2, 2023, the West Bengal Assembly passed a resolution urging the withdrawal of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024. Minister Sovandeb Chattopadhyay moved the resolution, arguing that the bill would adversely impact Waqf administration in the state.
BJP Walkout and Argument
The BJP, which opposes the resolution, staged a walkout during the discussion. Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari argued that the resolution was a waste of time given that a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) had been formed to examine the bill and its term had been extended till 2025.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
Q: What is the purpose of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024? A: The bill aims to improve transparency and accountability in Waqf administration.
Q: Why is the West Bengal Assembly opposed to the bill? A: The Assembly believes the bill infringes on state autonomy and local community involvement in Waqf management.
Q: What is the status of the JPC examining the bill? A: The JPC's term has been extended till 2025 to complete its examination.
Q: What is the next step in the legislative process? A: The JPC is expected to submit its report to Parliament, which will then debate and vote on the bill.
Q: What impact could the bill have if passed? A: The bill could increase central oversight of Waqf boards and reduce the role of local communities in their management.
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