Modi govt saved Parliament building from Waqf takeover: Kiren Rijiju in Lok Sabha

Rijiju said it was Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, which came in 2014, that actually saved the Parliament building takeover by the Waqf board.

The minister made the remark tabling the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha where the Modi government needs the mandatory support of the allies for the passage of any bill.

Rijiju, who is also the Minority Affairs Minister, says, "A case has been going on since 1970 in Delhi. Delhi Waqf board had claimed several properties including CGO Complex, Parliament building. While the matter was subjudice, the then UPA government had handed over the entire land to the Waqf board by notifying."

"If we hadn't brought an amendment bill, 123 properties including this Parliament building would have been claimed by the Waqf board. We have no idea how many properties would have been notified if the Narendra Modi government had not come and UPA continued its rule," he added.

When the Congress protested against the minister's remarks, Rijiju said, "I am speaking on the basis of an official record. This is the reality."

"I believe that those who oppose this bill will also have a change in their hearts. Everyone will support this bill with a positive attitude," he added.

All political parties irrespective of ruling and opposition camps have issued a whip to be present in the House.

Rijiju said the Lok Sabha's Business Advisory Committee comprising representatives from all major political parties agreed on an eight-hour debate.

The committee, which is chaired by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, has agreed that the duration of the debate can be extended as per the sense of the House.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is short of majority in the Lok Sabha, is backed by its crucial allies, Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Janata Dal (United) and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP).

The government is in all probability likely to get its bill sail through the lower house of Parliament with the support of its allies.

On the other hand, the Opposition comprising contradictory allies is aiming to put up a united show having discussed the matter in a meeting on Tuesday.