Bill Scheduled for Consideration on Wednesday, Minister Kiren Rijiju to Lead Debate
The amended Waqf Bill is set to be presented for debate and passage in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, following extensive review and modifications suggested by a joint parliamentary panel, sources reported. The bill, which has drawn strong criticism from opposition parties and prominent Muslim organizations, will undergo a discussion scheduled for eight hours.
Opposition and Government Clash Over Debate Duration
In a Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting chaired by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, the opposition parties initially sought a 12-hour window for debating the bill. However, the government maintained that only eight hours could be allotted due to a scheduled statutory resolution to discuss the imposition of central rule in Manipur. The conflicting stances resulted in a heated exchange, culminating in a walkout by opposition members.
Kiren Rijiju to Present Bill in Lok Sabha
Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju will respond to points raised during the discussion on the amended Waqf Bill. Rijiju will subsequently seek approval from the Lok Sabha to ensure the bill's smooth passage.
Amit Shah to Address Manipur Issue
Home Minister Amit Shah will separately address the statutory resolution on the imposition of central rule in Manipur, an issue that the government cited as justification for limiting debate hours on the Waqf Bill.
Opposition Terms Bill 'Unconstitutional'
Opposition parties have strongly criticized the Waqf Bill, labeling it as "unconstitutional" and detrimental to the interests of India's Muslim community. Leading Muslim organizations have also rallied extensively, mobilizing support against the proposed legislation.
The discussion in the Lok Sabha is anticipated to be intense, reflecting the charged political atmosphere surrounding this contentious piece of legislation.
