Lok Sabha set for debate on Waqf Amendment Bill as Opposition resists
New Delhi: The Lok Sabha is set to debate and vote on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill on Wednesday, with an eight-hour discussion scheduled. The bill has sparked a sharp divide between the government and the Opposition, which has labeled it "unconstitutional."
With a simple majority of 272 votes required for passage, the ruling NDA, which holds 293 seats, is expected to push the bill through. Key allies, including the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Janata Dal (United), and the Lok Janshakti Party (Ramvilas), have extended support after their recommendations were considered by a joint parliamentary committee. The BJP has issued a whip for its MPs, while Opposition parties have done the same to ensure full attendance.
Despite being outnumbered, the Opposition has vowed to challenge the bill. Congress MP K C Venugopal stated that it contradicts constitutional provisions, while CPI(M) MP John Brittas confirmed plans to demand a division of votes. The INDIA bloc, after a strategy meeting, agreed to participate in the debate and push for a vote count.
Earlier, Opposition leaders walked out of a business advisory committee meeting, accusing the government of curbing their voice. Minorities and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju confirmed the debate schedule, stating that the Speaker had allowed an eight-hour discussion, extendable if needed. However, the Opposition had demanded 12 hours.
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Vote rigging charges against MLA DN Jeevaraj: HC grants interim stay on FIR
Bengaluru: Karnataka High Court has issued an interim stay on the FIR against Sringeri legislator DN Jeevaraj, who is accused of vote rigging.
A vacation bench consisting of Justice V Sreeshananda heard on Tuesday the BJP MLA’s plea urging the HC to quash the case against him.
After hearing the arguments, the judge granted an interim stay on the case against Jeevaraj.
The hearing of the case has been adjourned to Thursday, May 7.
