"We are still in favour...": LJP (Ram Vilas) MP Shambhavi Chaudhary on Waqf Amendment Bill

"Our party is in support of this amendment bill. Our party has always stood with the minorities. We support the amendment but if there is anyone who wants a wider consultation or if the bill goes to a committee, we have no objection," Chaudhary said.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to "effectively address" issues related to the powers of the State Waqf Boards, registration and survey of waqf properties and removal of encroachments, was introduced in Lok Sabha.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which amends the Waqf Act, 1995, was introduced by Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.

Opposition parties including the Congress, DMK, NCP, Trinamool Congress and AIMIM strongly opposed the introduction of the bill, saying its provisions were against federalism and the constitutional provisions. While some members demanded the withdrawal of the bill, many suggested that should be sent to a standing committee.

Kiren Rijijiu agreed to the suggestions for further scrutiny of the bill by a parliamentary committee.

"We are not running away anywhere. So, if this has to be referred to any committee, I would like to speak on behalf of my govt - a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) be formed, this Bill be referred to it & detailed discussion be held," he said.

Rijijiu gave a detailed reply to the points raised by opposition parties and said the government was acting on recommendations made by a panel constituted when the Congress-led UPA government was in power. (ANI)