Sanghavi and Owaisi Clash at JPC Meeting on Waqf Bill in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad : A heated verbal exchange erupted between Minister of State for Home Affairs, Harsh Sanghavi, and All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief, Asaduddin Owaisi, during a recent Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) meeting in Ahmedabad. The meeting was convened to discuss the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and saw tensions rise as differing views were aired.

The 31-member JPC, chaired by Jagadambika Pal, gathered at a hotel in Ahmedabad to deliberate on the proposed amendments. The committee, which includes members of the Gujarat Waqf Board, political representatives, and legal experts, has been tasked with examining the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which is set to reform key aspects of the Waqf Board’s functioning.

Congress MLA Imran Khedawala, who was also present at the meeting, voiced his displeasure with the proceedings, alleging that the government was staging a show rather than engaging in meaningful discussions. “The presentation by the Waqf Board members seemed to be under government directives and did not reflect our perspectives. We strongly oppose the proposal to grant powers to the Collector,” said Khedawala, adding to the charged atmosphere.

Despite the verbal spat, Sanghavi remained composed and reiterated that all relevant suggestions had been submitted to the JPC for consideration. “While I cannot disclose the specific details of the discussions, I can confirm that we have provided recommendations that serve the interests of every citizen,” said Sanghavi. He also mentioned that the full details of the suggestions would be made public in line with JPC rules.

Owaisi and Sanghavi’s clash marked a moment of intense disagreement over the Waqf Board’s rules and regulations. However, Sanghavi refrained from making further comments on the matter, stating that his role in the meeting was to advocate for the welfare of the people.

The JPC is scheduled to continue its deliberations on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, with upcoming meetings planned in Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru. The committee is made up of 31 members, 21 from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha, tasked with scrutinizing the proposed changes to the Waqf Board’s structure and governance.

The outcome of these discussions could have significant implications for the management of Waqf properties and their oversight across the country.