January 24, 2025: A fresh controversy erupted in the joint parliamentary committee (JPC) meeting on the Waqf Bill as ten opposition MPs, including Trinamool Congress leader Kalyan Banerjee, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, and DMK’s A Raja, were suspended for the day following a heated confrontation.

The uproar occurred during a session to discuss proposed amendments to 44 sections of the Waqf Act of 1955. The session began contentiously, with opposition MPs accusing the ruling party members of rushing the bill without providing adequate time for a thorough review.

The meeting had been set to include a presentation by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the religious leader of Kashmir. However, proceedings were delayed due to the opposition's protests and accusations that the BJP-led members were attempting to expedite the bill to influence the upcoming Delhi elections.

As tensions escalated, arguments led to a brief adjournment. When the committee reconvened, the Mirwaiz addressed the panel, voicing strong objections to the proposed changes. "The government should not interfere in Waqf matters, particularly in a sensitive region like Jammu and Kashmir. These changes could disempower Muslims and create distrust," he warned.

However, the situation deteriorated further when Kalyan Banerjee and Congress MP Naseer Hussain stormed out of the meeting, branding the proceedings a “farce.” In response, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey accused the opposition of trying to suppress the majority's voice and acting against parliamentary norms.

The JPC, established in August 2024, has been marred by controversies and disruptions. This is not the first time chaos has erupted; in October, a dramatic moment unfolded when Banerjee shattered a glass bottle and flung it toward committee Chair Jagadambika Pal, highlighting the persistent acrimony.

The ongoing strife underscores deep divisions over the proposed amendments, with critics alleging they undermine religious autonomy and proponents insisting they aim to streamline governance. As debates intensify, the bill's fate remains uncertain amidst heightened political and public scrutiny.