New Delhi: The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is set to be tabled in Parliament on Wednesday, with both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress issuing whips to their MPs to ensure their presence in the House. The ruling BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Opposition INDIA bloc remain divided on the bill, making the majority numbers on the floor crucial for the final decision.

The bill is scheduled to be introduced after the Question Hour for consideration and passage. This will be followed by an eight-hour discussion, which may be extended. In line with BJP and Congress, their allies have also directed all their MPs to be present in Parliament on April 2 and 3.

Opposition criticises the bill

The Opposition has raised strong objections to the proposed amendments. Samajwadi Party (SP) chief whip Dharmendra Yadav has issued a three-line whip to all its MPs in the Lok Sabha, instructing them to be present and participate in discussions. Meanwhile, INDIA bloc floor leaders met in Parliament on Tuesday to formulate their strategy on the bill.

Background and key provisions

The bill was initially presented in the Lok Sabha in August last year. A Joint Parliamentary Committee, led by Jagdambika Pal, was subsequently formed to examine it further.

The proposed amendments seek to refine the Waqf Act, 1995, to address challenges in managing and regulating Waqf properties. The bill includes changes such as renaming the Act, redefining waqf, streamlining the registration process, and integrating technology for better record management.

The Waqf Act, 1995, was introduced to regulate Waqf properties but has faced criticism over issues such as mismanagement, corruption, and encroachments. The amendment aims to enhance the efficiency of Waqf boards and improve administration.

With ANi inputs