BJP MP Calls for Disciplinary Action Over Disruption in Parliamentary Committee

BJP Member of Parliament Tejasvi Surya has called for disciplinary measures after alleging that opposition members disrupted a meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. The incident reportedly involved threats directed at the meeting’s Chairperson and a witness, along with the destruction of committee documents.

According to a letter written by Surya to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, the disruptions took place during a session held on October 14, 2024. Surya claimed that opposition members verbally and physically intimidated those present, highlighting the necessity for maintaining Parliamentary decorum. “Such conduct cannot be taken lightly,” Surya stated, emphasizing the need for disciplinary action.

In his communication, Surya mentioned, “I wish to bring to your attention the unfortunate disruptions and inappropriate conduct that occurred during the meeting of the joint parliamentary committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.” He added that the Chairperson had invited Anwar Manippadi, former Chairman of the Karnataka State Minorities Commission, to speak before the committee.

Manippadi’s deposition included discussions of his 2012 report, which alleged large-scale encroachments or the sale of approximately 2,000 acres of Waqf land worth about Rs. 2 lakh crore. This report implicated leaders of the Indian National Congress. The facts presented in the report were later authenticated by Upa Lokayukta Justice Anand in 2016.

Opposition members reportedly caused a disruption as soon as these issues were addressed, leading to further allegations of misconduct. Surya detailed the events in his letter, accusing opposition MPs of tearing committee documents, making derogatory remarks, and threatening other members.

The allegations have intensified surrounding the Waqf Amendment Bill, with opposition members boycotting ongoing discussions. The 2012 Karnataka Wakf Scam Report by Manippadi, mentioned during the parliamentary proceedings, accuses prominent Congress figure Mallikarjun Kharge and other political leaders of misusing Waqf funds.

Manippadi’s report alleges systematic corruption within the Waqf institutions, which manage properties meant for the Muslim community’s welfare. The report claims that a significant portion of the proceeds from leasing these valuable lands is embezzled by corrupt officials and leaders, with only a fraction reaching the intended beneficiaries.