New Delhi [India]: In a sharp political confrontation, Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Kalyan Banerjee on Friday launched a scathing attack on BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf Amendment Act, accusing him of pushing through an undemocratic process.
“He (Jagdambika Pal) should resign immediately because of his nasty work. He is an undemocratic person. The Waqf Act has been passed solely on the basis of the number of members. I can assure that it will be declared unconstitutional,” Banerjee told ANI.
🔁 Jagdambika Pal Responds: “Will Resign If Unconstitutional”
Earlier on Friday, Jagdambika Pal defended the legislation and responded to growing criticism.
“If the report made by us is unconstitutional or interferes with religious freedom, then I will resign,” he stated.
Pal also emphasized that Parliament passed the Act after extensive debate and that the Supreme Court now has the authority to interpret it.
He accused the Opposition, especially the Congress, of “misleading the public” by alleging the bill violates religious freedom.
“The amendments actually benefit poor and Pasmanda Muslims. Most objections raised concern ‘Waqf by user’ and the inclusion of non-Muslim members—both of which were reviewed and addressed by the committee,” Pal added.
⚖️ Supreme Court Weighs In: Centre Gives Assurances
On April 17, during Supreme Court proceedings, the Centre assured that:
- It would not denotify any ‘Waqf-by-user’ provisions, and
- No non-Muslim members would be added to the Waqf Boards.
The Court is currently hearing 73 petitions, both supporting and opposing the Act. While petitioners have alleged discrimination and violation of fundamental rights, others, including state governments ruled by BJP and pro-tribal/Hindu organisations, have filed impleadment applications in favor of the law.
The Supreme Court’s next hearing will focus on directions and possible interim orders, with a final ruling to follow.
🧾 What Is the Waqf Amendment Act Controversy?
The Waqf Amendment Act has become a major flashpoint between the BJP and opposition parties, especially in states with significant minority populations.
Key contentious issues include:
- The concept of “Waqf by user”, which allows land to be declared Waqf based on religious usage.
- The proposed inclusion of non-Muslim members on the Waqf Board.
While the government claims it promotes transparency, equity, and minority welfare, opponents argue it undermines community autonomy and erodes religious freedoms.