Opposition members on Thursday called for an extension of the Joint Committee on the Waqf Amendment Bill’s tenure, arguing that more time is required to thoroughly review the proposed amendments.
At the committee meeting, chaired by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, it was announced that this would be the panel’s final sitting, with a draft report to be circulated soon. The announcement prompted protests from opposition members, who accused Pal of rushing the process. Some members reportedly contacted Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, seeking his intervention.
The committee has been tasked with submitting its report by the end of the first week of the Winter Session of Parliament, which begins Monday. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill is scheduled for consideration and passage during the session, contingent upon the committee’s report.
Opposition members have previously criticized Pal for allegedly sidelining them and “bulldozing proceedings” by scheduling intensive, day-long meetings and not consulting them on key decisions, including selecting witnesses to appear before the panel.
Despite earlier complaints to Speaker Birla, the opposition remains dissatisfied, citing inadequate preparation time to address the complexities of the proposed legislation.
