Tensions Erupt During JPC Meeting in Bihar Over Wakf Board Act Amendments

Patna: A meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), convened to gather Bihar’s opinion on proposed amendments to the Wakf Board Act, witnessed heated exchanges on Saturday. Chaired by Jagdambika Pal, the session saw disagreements among committee members and various organizations over contentious points in the legislation.

Rakesh Singh Mantu of the Rajput Mahasabha sparked controversy by calling the Wakf Board “unconstitutional.” This statement drew sharp objections, particularly from Kishanganj Congress MP Dr. Mohammad Javed, who demanded an FIR be filed against Mantu. The remark escalated into a verbal tussle, with representatives from other groups, including Upendra Chauhan of Rashtriya Samajik Nyay Morcha, responding defiantly. “We are not afraid of threats,” they asserted.

Chairman Jagdambika Pal intervened to diffuse the situation, restoring order after significant back-and-forth among participants.

Calls to Reject the Amendment Bill

Representatives of several Muslim organizations, including Imarat-e-Sharia, Jamiat Ulema, Milli Council, and presidents of Sunni and Shia Wakf Boards, strongly opposed the proposed amendments. They argued the bill violated fundamental rights and religious freedoms enshrined in the Constitution.

BJP Raises Concerns Over Misuse of Wakf Law

BJP MLA Dr. Sanjeev Chaurasia highlighted instances of alleged misuse of Wakf Board provisions. He cited examples, including the board’s declaration of 1.34 acres of land in Gardnibagh as its property and the construction of a Markaz on non-cultivated common land in Sheikhpura.

Report Timeline

JPC chairman Jagdambika Pal assured that the committee’s report on the matter would be presented in the upcoming budget session.