Patna (Bihar): The Chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf Amendment Bill, Jagdambika Pal, highlighted contentious issues necessitating amendments to the Waqf Act, 1995. Addressing a press meet, he revealed disputes involving Waqf property claims, such as an old church in Kerala and Kumbh land, as key reasons for the proposed changes.

“In Kerala, someone declared an old church as Waqf property, and now there are claims over the Kumbh land as well. This amendment was introduced specifically to address such disputes,” said Pal, underscoring the need for clarity and transparency.

Why reforms are crucial
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aims to tackle issues like mismanagement, corruption, and encroachments, which have long plagued Waqf properties. Proposed reforms include digitisation, stricter audits, and legal mechanisms to reclaim illegally occupied lands.

Pal noted that the JPC has consulted over 204 delegations and stakeholders across 34 meetings, ensuring the draft amendments comprehensively address concerns.

The committee, tasked with submitting its report during the budget session beginning January 31, is on a tight schedule. Nationwide consultations, including ongoing sessions in Bihar, aim to finalise recommendations promptly.

Budget session highlights
With the union budget set for February 1, Parliament's budget session will continue until April 4, making timely submission crucial. The JPC's extended tenure reflects efforts to introduce a robust and inclusive reform.

This amendment, Pal emphasized, will provide a framework to resolve disputes like those in Kerala and beyond, ensuring transparency and equitable property management.

With ANI inputs