In response to the Muslim bodies’ announcement of large-scale protests against the Waqf Amendment Bill, Chairman of Joint Parliament Committee, Jagdambika Pal on Monday said that the Bill cannot be stopped from passing irrespective of any ‘threats.’
Speaking to IANS on Monday, Pal said, “Approaching the Supreme Court is always an option, but should we as a democracy function only through threats or by the will of the people? Elected representatives make laws, not by threats,” he said.
Defending the bill’s drafting process, he said that the bill had undergone extensive review and consultations. However, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has criticized the JPC for failing to consult scholars or hold wider discussions before introducing the bill.
Pal has responded to the criticism, saying the JPC had engaged with the AIMPLB for six months, giving them four hours to present their concerns. He claimed the resulting 400-page amendment includes provisions designed to support vulnerable groups such as the poor, women, orphans, widows, and economically disadvantaged Muslims.
“The bill’s amendments are crucial and aim to benefit marginalized communities,” Pal maintained. “No resistance will stop this bill from passing.”
Muslim organizations have condemned the bill, accusing the ruling BJP of targeting the Muslim community through what they describe as “unconstitutional laws.”
The AIMPLB has announced plans for nationwide protests, while the Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind has pledged full support, stating that the government’s actions are forcing Muslims to demonstrate.
