New Delhi

The Joint Committee of Parliament that is examining the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, on Friday heard the views of representative of several Muslim Organisations on the  proposed legislation.

Representatives of All India Sunni Jamiat-e-Ulema, Mumbai, Indian Muslims for Civil Rights, New Delhi, Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board and Rajasthan Muslim Waqf Board are meeting the JPC to place their views on the bill on record.

The JPC held its first meeting on 22 August and according to the sources, it was quite tumultuous.

The meeting witnessed heated exchanges between the BJP and opposition MPs about the purpose of the bill. Members proposed that the JPC should invite suggestions from the public and all the stakeholders to the bill.

In response, JPC chief Jagdambika Pal invited suggestions on the 'Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024' through an advertisement published in different newspapers.

An advertisement has been issued by the Lok Sabha Secretariat stating that any person or institution can send their suggestions to the JPC through post, fax and email regarding the Wakf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

According to the advertisement issued by the Lok Sabha Secretariat, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 introduced in the Lok Sabha has been referred to the Joint Committee of Parliament for scrutiny and report.

Keeping in view the wide implications of the proposed Bill, the Committee constituted under the chairmanship of Jagdambika Pal has decided to invite memoranda containing views/suggestions from the general public and in particular NGOs/experts/stakeholders and institutions.

It further said that those wishing to submit written memorandum or suggestions to the committee may send two copies in English or Hindi to the Joint Secretary (JM), Lok Sabha Secretariat, Room No. 440, Parliament House Annexe, New Delhi-110001.

A number for fax -23017709 has also been issued. A mail ID has also been issued by the committee for giving suggestions. Suggestions can be sent within 15 days from the date of publication of this advertisement.

A copy of the 'Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024' has been uploaded on the Lok Sabha website in both Hindi and English languages.

The memoranda or suggestions submitted to the committee will form part of the committee's records and will be considered 'confidential'. These will also be considered related to the privileges of the committee.

ALSO READ: J&K Assembly Polls: Sikhs seek Muslims' support for election of 3 independents

It has also been said that those who wish to present their views before the committee in addition to submitting a memorandum can specifically express their wish in this regard. However, the committee will have the final authority to take a decision in this regard.