A Joint Parliamentary Committee meeting in New Delhi, focused on the Waqf Amendment Bill, faced significant disruptions earlier today. Heated arguments broke out quickly between government and opposition members, creating a chaotic scene. Consequently, the committee had to suspend 10 opposition members for a day to restore order.
The disagreement centered around proposed changes to the Waqf Act, which manages properties donated to Islamic religious or charitable purposes. These tensions escalated quickly, leading to shouting and heated exchanges. Due to the severity of the disruption, marshals were called in to manage the situation. Eventually, the chair had no other option than to suspend members due to the disorderly conduct.
Among the suspended members are Kalyan Banerjee and Nadeemul Haque from the TMC, as well as Asaduddin Owaisi from AIMIM. Sources within the JPC mentioned that the debate not only became extremely vigorous but also went against the established procedures of the committee. As a result, the chairman took action against these individuals.
VIDEO | Here's what BJP MP Jagdambika Pal (@jagdambikapalmp), JPC chairman, said on Opposition members being suspended from Parliamentary panel on Waqf bill.
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"A delegation had come (from Jammu and Kashmir) and the opposition (members) started shouting slogans and used derogatory… pic.twitter.com/Ocm3Rbk2m5
According to a source present at the meeting, there was “complete pandemonium” which caused the rapid deterioration of the situation. The one-day suspensions serve as a temporary measure. The hope is to ensure that the next session proceeds with more order and respect for parliamentary processes.
This incident raises questions about the smooth functioning of parliamentary committees. Moreover, it has moved the discussion of the Waqf Amendment Bill into the spotlight of political debate. Further discussions are expected in the coming days, but the government has made clear that it plans to continue with the bill despite the recent disruptions.