Lok Sabha set for heated Waqf Bill debate as government and Opposition issue whips

The Lok Sabha is set to witness an intense debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, today. The bill, which was first introduced in August last year, proposes 40 amendments to the Waqf Act of 1995. With both the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc taking firm stands, the discussion is expected to be heated. Several political parties, including the Congress and BJP, have issued whips to their MPs, making it mandatory for them to be present in the House.

Key points of the debate

The opposition has been vocal in its criticism of the bill, calling it "unconstitutional" and accusing the ruling party of using it as a political tool. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has also opposed the bill, stating that no law should be passed without consulting the affected communities. On the other hand, the Uttarakhand Waqf Board chairman, Shadab Shams, has defended the bill, arguing that it aims to bring poor Muslims into the mainstream and protect their rights.

The discussion will take place after the Question Hour, and the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) has agreed to an eight-hour debate. However, this could be extended depending on how the discussions progress. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has emphasized the importance of this debate, given the sensitivity of the issue.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has accused the BJP of trying to divert attention from major issues like inflation and unemployment through this bill. Senior AAP leader Sanjay Singh questioned the need for a new bill when, according to the government, most Waqf properties were already digitized. Meanwhile, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has called on secular parties to oppose the bill, arguing that it discriminates against a particular community and goes against constitutional principles.

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Political reactions and security measures

Political reactions to the bill have been varied. The Jana Sena Party, led by actor-politician Pawan Kalyan, has decided to support the bill, believing it will benefit the Muslim community. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis took a jibe at Uddhav Thackeray, questioning whether he would uphold Shiv Sena's original ideology or align with the opposition.

Security has been tightened in Delhi ahead of the discussion, with police increasing patrols in sensitive areas. Officials have been instructed to ensure that law and order are maintained. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP), a key BJP ally, has issued a three-line whip to its MPs, directing them to be present in the House.

As the discussion unfolds, all eyes will be on how the ruling party and opposition navigate the debate. With strong opinions on both sides, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill is set to be one of the most debated legislations in recent times.