NEW DELHI: In a surprising move that has sparked considerable political debate, the NDA government has referred the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) despite its ability to push the bill through the Lok Sabha with ease. This decision has drawn attention from political analysts and opposition parties, raising questions about the government’s strategy and potential long-term goals.
Background on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aims to make significant changes to the administration and management of waqf properties in India. The bill has been a point of contention due to its perceived implications on the control and oversight of religious trusts and properties. Critics argue that the amendments could impact the autonomy of waqf boards and the administration of properties meant for religious and charitable purposes.
Formation of the Joint Parliamentary Committee
On Friday, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju announced the formation of the JPC to review the bill. The committee comprises 31 members: 21 from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha. Notable members include AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi and Congress MP Imran Masood, both of whom have been vocal in their opposition to the bill.
The JPC will be tasked with examining the bill in detail, considering various perspectives, and potentially recommending amendments. This process is expected to provide a more thorough and balanced review of the bill before it proceeds further in the legislative process.
Why the JPC Move?
The BJP’s decision to refer the bill to the JPC has been interpreted in various ways. While the ruling party could have pushed the bill through the Lok Sabha without much difficulty, the move to send it to the JPC appears to be a strategic decision with several potential benefits:
- Mitigating Opposition Criticism: By agreeing to the JPC review, the BJP has sought to address opposition concerns and criticisms. The opposition has painted the BJP as anti-Muslim, alleging that the bill could lead to chaos and undermine religious trust management. The JPC’s review provides a platform for a more nuanced discussion and potential modifications to address these concerns.
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- Strategic Timing and Rajya Sabha Dynamics: The BJP’s decision to delay the bill’s passage may also be strategically timed. With the Rajya Sabha currently lacking a BJP majority, the bill could face significant challenges in the upper house. By sending the bill to the JPC, the government buys time to bolster its position in the Rajya Sabha.
The Election Commission has announced poll dates for 12 vacant Rajya Sabha seats, with voting and counting scheduled for September 3. The BJP is confident of securing at least 10 of these seats, thanks to its strong position in state assemblies across Assam, Bihar, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tripura, and Odisha. Winning these seats would enhance the NDA’s tally in the Rajya Sabha, making it easier to push through controversial legislation.
- Farsighted Strategy: The BJP’s approach might be aimed at ensuring that the bill, when eventually debated in the Rajya Sabha, has a higher likelihood of passing. With an increased number of supportive members, the BJP hopes to secure the necessary majority to pass the bill smoothly in the next parliamentary session.
Opposition Reactions
The opposition has seized upon the bill’s referral to the JPC as a partial victory, interpreting it as a concession from the BJP. However, they remain cautious, suspecting that the JPC review could be a tactical maneuver rather than a genuine attempt at compromise. The opposition leaders continue to voice concerns about the bill’s potential impact and the government’s intentions.
Conclusion
The decision to refer the Waqf (Amendment) Bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee is a strategic move by the Modi government that reflects a complex interplay of legislative strategy and political maneuvering. While it provides a platform for comprehensive examination and potential amendments, it also buys time for the BJP to strengthen its position in the Rajya Sabha. As the JPC reviews the bill and the political landscape evolves, all eyes will be on the subsequent parliamentary sessions and the future of the bill’s passage.
