Can Assembly change Waqf amendment if discussion happens, asks BJP MLA Pathania

Jammu, Apr 08: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Ranbir Singh Pathania on Tuesday criticised the National Conference (NC) and its allies for demanding a discussion on the Waqf Amendment Bill, calling the situation an “all-time low” in the region’s legislative history.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir after the J&K Assembly was disrupted for the second consecutive day, Pathania expressed concern over the ruling party’s own role in the disruptions. “It’s shocking to see the ruling party itself stalling the house. Is the ruling party going to oppose the house now? They are not allowing others to speak. Where will the rest of the voices go—the poor, the labourers, the farmers, the women, the youth, the daily wagers?”
Calling the insistence on discussing the Waqf Amendment Bill “stubbornness”, he questioned the intent and legality behind the demand. “You’re holding on to an issue you have no authority over, no jurisdiction, no concern. If a discussion is held and a decision is taken to amend or modify the Waqf structure—does this house have that power?” he said.
Referring to the Speaker’s ruling, Pathania defended the decision to disallow the discussion. “The Speaker clearly explained that we cannot deliberate on a matter that is sub judice. These are the rules of the Assembly, this is parliamentary procedure and precedent. But you refuse to listen,” he said.
The BJP leader also invoked the NC President’s statement, saying, “Your party head, Dr Farooq Abdullah, himself says the matter should be left to the Supreme Court. The Speaker’s decision is correct, yet you ignore both him and the Constitution.”
Pathania went on to accuse the ruling alliance of failing in its governance. “The NC appears frustrated within just six months of being in power. You gave big promises to the public, but haven’t fulfilled any of them,” he said.
Criticising the opposition’s focus, he said, “These artificial controversies reveal the political and ideological bankruptcy of the National Conference. The people of J&K have seen through them—that’s why such hollow issues are being pushed forward.”
On concerns about the Waqf Amendment Bill, Pathania said, “Let’s be clear—this bill does not harm any Muslim individual, organisation or religious institution. It doesn’t take away an inch of their land or property.”