Opposition Creates Confusion & Leaves House: Rijiju in Rajya Sabha
The ongoing session of the Rajya Sabha has witnessed its fair share of heated debates and discussions. Recently, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju came down heavily on senior Rajya Sabha members for creating confusion and raising issues in the House, but not staying back to listen to the replies. This remark came during discussions on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which has been a topic of much controversy in recent times.
Rijiju’s comments were directed at senior member Kapil Sibal, who had compared the properties of Waqf bodies with those of other religious bodies. The Union Minister accused Sibal of creating confusion and not allowing the debate to proceed in a productive manner.
“What is the point of raising issues and creating confusion, and then leaving the House without staying back to listen to the replies?” Rijiju asked, his tone laced with frustration. “It’s not a healthy practice and we should avoid it.”
Rijiju’s remarks sparked a heated debate in the House, with several members taking to the floor to express their views. Sibal, in his defense, claimed that his remarks were based on facts and that he was merely highlighting the inconsistencies in the Waqf (Amendment) Bill.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill aims to bring uniformity in the management of Waqf properties across the country. The properties, which are managed by Waqf boards, are a crucial source of income for many Muslims and are also used for religious purposes.
However, the opposition parties have been vehemently opposing the bill, claiming that it is an attempt to undermine the autonomy of Waqf boards and to give more power to the central government. They have also raised concerns about the potential misuse of Waqf properties if the bill is passed.
Rijiju’s criticism of Sibal was not the only controversy that erupted during the debate. Several other members also got into a heated argument, with some accusing others of making baseless allegations and others accusing them of being biased.
The debate was marked by a lack of decorum and respect for each other’s views, with members from both sides trading barbs and insults. This kind of behavior is not uncommon in the Rajya Sabha, where members often get carried away with their emotions and lose sight of the issue at hand.
However, Rijiju’s remarks were significant because they highlighted the need for members to engage in constructive and respectful debates. As a minister, Rijiju has a responsibility to uphold the dignity of the House and to ensure that debates are conducted in a manner that is respectful to all members.
In conclusion, Rijiju’s criticism of Sibal and the opposition parties’ behavior during the debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill serves as a reminder of the importance of constructive and respectful debates in the Rajya Sabha. It is essential that members of the House maintain a sense of decorum and respect for each other’s views, even when they disagree.
