Bhubaneswar: The five-member Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) team seeking opiions on Waqf Amendment Bill concluded its three-day tour of the state on Tuesday after gathering feedback from various stakeholders.
The committee, led by chairperson Jagdambika Pal, held extensive discussions with Islamic scholars, activists, lawyers, representatives of minority organisations and state govt officials. Pal said the committee received valuable suggestions which would be considered in their report to be tabled in Parliament soon.
BJP’s Bhubaneswar MP Aparajita Sarangi, part of the team, said they received mixed responses, with stakeholders expressing both support and opposition to the proposed amendments. She emphasised that the committee’s primary focus remains on ensuring transparency and comprehensive reform.
Several prominent minority community members strongly opposed the bill during Monday’s discussions, with some calling for its complete repeal. A group of Islamic scholars, advocates and social activists submitted a memorandum arguing against provisions they believe could harm Waqf properties and the community’s interests.
Former state Waqf Board chairman Sayed Ekram Hussain warned that certain proposed amendments could undermine fundamental Waqf governance principles. Similarly, Maulana Syed Naqeebul Ameen Barqee, general secretary of Jamiat Ulama-e-Odisha, advocated for the bill’s withdrawal in the community’s interest.
However, the bill also found support from some quarters. Sikandar Ali, president of BJP state Minority Morcha, along with his supporters, submitted a memorandum backing the amendments, suggesting they would enhance Waqf property management and preserve institutional integrity.
The committee will consider all perspectives before finalising its recommendations for the proposed legislation.