Parliament Budget session Day 13: Centre to introduce Waqf Bill in Lok Sabha today

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which aims to rename the Waqf Act, 1995, as the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995, is expected to be introduced in Parliament today.

Meanwhile, the Congress, increasing its opposition to the ruling BJP-led NDA government, announced that their whip, Manickam Tagore, will propose an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, to discuss a caste-based Census. Before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Congress promised to conduct a caste census if elected.

Additionally, the Finance Bill for the financial year 2024-2025, presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on August 6, is scheduled for consideration and passing in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, August 7, 2024.

The monsoon session of Parliament, which began on July 22, is set to conclude on August 12.

What All To Take Place In Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha

Here's the list of business in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha today:

• Waqf Bill Likely to Be Introduced Today

The Lok Sabha is set to introduce a bill proposing significant changes to the Waqf boards. This bill, which aims to rename the Waqf Act of 1995 to the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Act of 1995, includes several key updates:

Key Provisions of the Proposed Waqf Bill:

1. Representation on Waqf Councils and Boards: The bill proposes that Muslim women and non-Muslims will be represented on the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards. This change aims to ensure a more inclusive and diverse representation.

2. Separate Boards for Specific Communities: It suggests creating separate Boards for the Boharas and Aghakhanis. Additionally, it includes representation for Shias, Sunnis, Bohras, Aghakhanis, and other backward classes within Muslim communities.

3. Removal of Section 40: The bill removes Section 40 of the current law, which grants the board the power to decide if a property is Waqf property.

4. Redefinition of ‘Waqf’: The term ‘Waqf’ is defined as property dedicated by a person who has practiced Islam for at least five years and owns the property.

5. Streamlining Registration: The bill aims to streamline Waqf registration through a central portal and database, outlining procedures for property mutation in accordance with revenue laws, including notice requirements.

Background and Context:

The Waqf Act of 1995 was originally established to regulate ‘Auqaf’—properties dedicated for religious or charitable purposes under Muslim law. The Act was last amended in 2013 to update various provisions and improve the management of Waqf properties.

• Finance Bill to Be Taken for Consideration

The Finance Bill for the financial year 2024-2025, which was introduced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on August 6, 2024, will be taken into consideration for passing in Lok Sabha today.

Key Details of the Finance Bill:

1. Purpose and Scope: The Finance (No.2) Bill, 2024, was moved to give effect to the financial proposals of the central government for the financial year 2024-25. The bill outlines the government's fiscal policy, including taxation and expenditure plans.

2. Consideration and Passing: The agenda of the Lok Sabha reads, "Further consideration of the following motion moved by Nirmala Sitharaman on the 6th August 2024 namely, that the Bill to give effect to the financial proposals of the Central Government for the financial year 2024-2025, be taken into consideration. Nirmala Sitharaman to move that the Bill be passed."

• Congress MP Seeks Discussion on Caste-Based Census

Congress MP Manickam Tagore has given an adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha to discuss the issue of a caste-based census.

Reasons for the Motion:

1. Urgent Need for Caste-Based Census: Tagore emphasized the urgent need for a caste-based census to ensure social justice and equitable progress. He highlighted the importance of accurate data collection for targeted welfare programs.

2. Budget Concerns: Tagore raised concerns about the drastic budget cut for the Census, which has been reduced to ₹1,309.46 crore from ₹3,768 crore. He argued that this reduction raises questions about the government's commitment to timely and effective data collection.

3. Impact on Social Justice: The lack of necessary funds impacts the efficacy of the census process, which is crucial for social justice and targeted welfare for marginalized communities. Tagore urged the government to prioritize and complete the caste-based census promptly.

• Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's Recent Speech

1. Tax Allocation from Health and Insurance Premiums

GST Revenue Distribution: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the Lok Sabha regarding the distribution of taxes collected from health and insurance premiums under the Goods and Services Tax (GST). According to Sitharaman, approximately 73-74% of the GST revenue derived from health and insurance premiums is allocated to state governments. She clarified that out of the 18% GST on these premiums, the revenue is split equally between the central and state governments, with each receiving 9%. Importantly, of the 9% allocated to the central government, 41% is subsequently redistributed to states. This redistribution, she noted, reflects the substantial proportion of GST revenue that benefits state governments.

2. Historical Context of Taxation on Health and Insurance

Pre-GST Era: In her speech, Sitharaman emphasized that the taxation of medical and health insurance premiums was a common practice before the implementation of the GST regime. She questioned the recent opposition protests over taxation, urging critics to address their concerns within the GST council, where states have a significant representation. She highlighted that this issue was previously discussed in the 31st and 37th GST council meetings.

3. Response to Demands for GST Exemption on Insurance Policies

Opposition Protests: Sitharaman expressed surprise at the protests from opposition members following a letter from a fellow minister regarding GST on insurance premiums. She criticized the opposition for using the issue for political gains and emphasized that the finance minister's role in such matters is limited by existing procedural frameworks.

4. Fuel Taxation and State Government Policies

Increased Fuel Taxes: The Finance Minister also addressed the criticism about high fuel taxes, pointing out that states governed by opposition parties—such as Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab—have recently increased their fuel taxes. Sitharaman argued that opposition members were inconsistent in their criticism, as their own states were contributing to the higher fuel rates.

5. Proposed Amendment to Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) Tax

New Computation Options: Sitharaman informed the Lok Sabha about a proposed amendment to the LTCG tax, which would offer individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) the choice between the existing indexation method and a new standard computation method for assets acquired before July 23, 2024. She assured that this option would prevent additional tax burdens and simplify tax computation and filing processes.

6. Shift to New Tax Regime

Taxpayer Adoption Rates: During the Assessment Year (AY) 2023-24, Sitharaman reported a significant increase in taxpayers opting for the new tax regime. From a modest 3.8% adoption rate, the figure has risen to 72.8%, encompassing 5.25 crore taxpayers out of 7.22 crore. Sitharaman attributed this shift to the benefits offered by the new regime, including lower tax rates and increased investments in mutual funds.

7. Corporate vs. Individual Taxation

Taxation Discrepancies: Sitharaman addressed concerns regarding perceived disparities between corporate and individual tax rates. She explained that the introduction of taxation at the shareholder level meant that wealthier shareholders face higher dividend tax rates (up to 39%), while smaller and middle-class shareholders benefit from lower effective tax rates.

8. Revision in Monetary Limits for Tax Appeals

Appeals Withdrawal: The Finance Minister announced an increase in the monetary limits for filing tax appeals, raising the threshold from Rs 50 lakhs to Rs 60 lakhs for tax tribunals and from Rs 2 crore to Rs 5 crore for the Supreme Court. This revision is expected to facilitate ease of doing business and result in the withdrawal of approximately 7,754 tax appeals from various judicial forums.

9. Enhancements to Facilitate International Trade

Boosting Export Competitiveness: Sitharaman outlined several steps taken to enhance international trade, aimed at boosting domestic production and improving export competitiveness.

10. Improvements in Income Tax Return Processing

Efficiency Gains: The Finance Minister highlighted the reduction in average processing time for income tax returns from 93 days in 2013-14 to just 10 days in 2023-24. She credited the introduction of pre-filled returns and a faceless processing regime for streamlining the filing process and reducing bureaucratic delays.

11. Relief Measures for the Middle Class

Tax Reductions: Sitharaman noted substantial tax relief for the middle class, including a reduction in effective tax rates on incomes of ₹15 lakh and further reductions this year. She emphasized that while other countries are increasing taxes, the Indian government, under Prime Minister Modi’s direction, has refrained from raising taxes to cover COVID-19 expenses.

12. Removal of Angel Tax

Historical Context and Relief: The Finance Minister described the removal of the angel tax, introduced in 2012, as a significant relief. She criticized the previous Congress administration for implementing this tax and highlighted the current government's efforts to alleviate its burden on entrepreneurs.

13. Liberalization of Personal Income Tax Slabs

Tax Benefits: Sitharaman pointed to the liberalization of personal income tax slabs in 2023, which has reduced tax liability for all taxpayers. She also highlighted an increase in the standard deduction under the new regime and proposed enhancements to family pension deductions, benefiting the middle class.

14. Response to Finance Bill Criticisms

Taxation Vision: In her response to criticisms of the Finance Bill, Sitharaman reiterated Prime Minister Modi’s vision of establishing a simple, efficient, fair, and technology-driven taxation system. She emphasized that the approach to taxation aims to simplify and modernize the process.

• Opposition Criticisms to Sitharaman's Speech

1. Kollam MP N.K. Premachandran: Premachandran objected to the inability to propose amendments to the 18% GST on health and life insurance premiums, citing procedural constraints. He also decided to revoke his earlier amendment on long-term capital gains taxation.

2. Rajya Sabha Member Satnam Singh Sandhu: Sandhu criticized the budget for being more of a continuation than a progressive step. He highlighted economic progress but questioned the lack of relevant statistics to back claims of economic crises.

3. Shiromani Akali Dal’s Harsimrat Kaur Badal: Badal labeled the Finance Bill a "Tax Trap Bill," arguing that it disproportionately burdens the poor while favoring the rich. She also called for support for India's bicycle industry.

4. RJD MP Prof. Manoj Jha: Jha criticized the wealth disparity in India, urging a tax on the super-rich and advocating for a nationwide caste census. He also discussed the impact of reduced import taxes on certain goods.

5. AIMIM’s Asaduddin Owaisi: Owaisi questioned the fairness of India's tax legislation and demanded the rollback of the 18% GST on health insurance.

6. Congress’ Brijendra Singh Ola: Ola criticized the budget for failing to address the needs of common people and farmers, arguing that it benefits the rich and corporate sector.

7. Congress MP R. Sudha: Sudha accused the central government of neglecting Tamil Nadu and criticized the lack of special grants for the state.

8. TMC MP Derek O’Brien: O’Brien called for the rollback of the 18% GST on health insurance, emphasizing bipartisan support for this demand among 350 MPs.

9. DMK MP Dr. Kalanidhi Veeraswamy: Veeraswamy highlighted the disproportionate tax burden on the poor due to indirect taxes and condemned the inclusion of essential commodities under GST.

10. RSP’s N.K. Premachandran: Premachandran opposed the Finance Bill, arguing it contradicted federal fiscal policies and unfairly favored the rich.

• Debate on Wayanad, Kerala

1. IUML MP Abdul Wahab: Wahab urged the focus on rehabilitation and development in Wayanad without political blame games, advocating for more financial support.

2. Minister of Environment Bhupender Yadav: Yadav responded to allegations about Kerala's environmental policies, emphasizing the need for compassionate governance and critiquing the state's handling of mining licenses and illegal habitation.

3. MoS Tourism Suresh Gopi: Gopi defended the government's stance on Kerala's development and discussed plans for a spiritual network from Tamil Nadu to Kerala, questioning the local administration's actions.

4. CPI (M) MP John Brittas: Brittas criticized the budget for not addressing the needs of Kerala and accused the central and environment ministers of insulting the state. He called for justice and better revenue distribution.

• Debate on Vinesh Phogat

1. Congress MP Shaktisinh Gohil: Gohil praised wrestler Vinesh Phogat and questioned the impact of government policies on her disqualification from the Olympics, while invoking past leaders' commitment to dignity.

2. Congress MP Shafi Parambil: Parambil lauded Phogat as India’s golden girl and criticized the timing of financial aid discussions, urging the government to support her recovery.

3. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya: Mandaviya briefed Parliament on Phogat's disqualification due to a minor weight discrepancy and detailed the support provided for her training, including the Prime Minister's involvement.

• Criticisms and Suggestions

1. BJP MP Ghanshyam Tiwari: Tiwari defended those contributing to national progress and criticized the tendency to undervalue successful individuals compared to international figures.

2. DMK MP P Wilson: Wilson criticized the budget's allocations for health and education and urged the government to revisit the National Education Policy and other developmental programs.

3. RJD MP Shivanand Tiwari: Tiwari questioned the Finance Bill's effectiveness and raised concerns about the distribution of financial resources to states.

• Rahul Gandhi’s Urgent Plea to Declare Wayanad landslides a national disaster

In light of the devastating landslides in Wayanad, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has called for immediate action from the central government. Speaking passionately about the disaster, Gandhi emphasized the collective efforts of local communities who have come together to aid those affected. He noted the severe impact of the landslides, stating that they have obstructed vital roads, hampering the ability of rescue teams to reach remote areas.

Key Demands:

1. Declaration of National Disaster: Gandhi urged the government to officially declare the landslides a national disaster.

2. Enhanced Compensation: He called for an increase in compensation for affected individuals and families.

3. Comprehensive Rehabilitation Package: Gandhi stressed the need for a rehabilitation plan that includes building disaster-resilient infrastructure to protect communities from future occurrences.

• Issues Regarding Coast Guard Region Declaration

CPI MP Questions Government's Stance

During a session in the Rajya Sabha, CPI MP Sandosh Kumar P raised concerns regarding the government's reluctance to declare the Kochi Ponnani area as a Coast Guard region. He questioned the rationale behind the government's decision, suggesting that a clearer explanation is necessary for public understanding.

Response from MoS Home Affairs

In response, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai clarified that the current approach aligns with existing regulations, implying that there are established protocols governing such declarations.

• Lok Sabha: Protests and Disruptions

The Lok Sabha has been marked by frequent disruptions as opposition members voice their grievances against Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The session experienced loud protests, particularly during the Zero Hour, highlighting the opposition's discontent with the government's policies.

• Rajya Sabha: Removal of the Preamble from Textbooks

Allegations by Mallikarjun Kharge

LoP Mallikarjun Kharge has accused the BJP government of removing the Preamble from NCERT textbooks. He criticized the government for allegedly undermining constitutional values by first removing statues of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi and now altering educational materials. The claims led to a vocal response from the Treasury benches, with Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar intervening to maintain order.

J.P. Nadda’s Counterclaims

Leader of the House J.P. Nadda refuted Kharge’s allegations, asserting that there is no intention to alter the Constitution’s Preamble. Nadda emphasized that credible sources are necessary for parliamentary discussions and criticized the reliance on newspaper clippings over actual NCERT textbooks. He reiterated the Modi government’s commitment to upholding the Constitution.

• Jitin Prasada on Cyberspace Dominance

Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada provided insights into India’s digital ambitions. He highlighted the country's robust mobile and internet user base, stating that with approximately 1 billion mobile users and 700 million internet users, India is poised to lead in cyberspace.

Government Initiatives:

1. Development of IT Hubs: The government is implementing policies to foster digital growth and establish electronic manufacturing hubs.

2. Commitment to Digital Infrastructure: Prasada underscored the government’s commitment to creating an advanced digital infrastructure to support future developments.

• Solar Waste Management Concerns

Concerns Raised by T. Sumathy

DMK leader T. Sumathy criticized the Centre for inadequate solar waste management. She questioned whether the government was waiting for a hazardous accumulation of solar waste before addressing disposal mechanisms.

Government’s Response

Minister of New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi confirmed that guidelines for solar waste disposal have been issued by the Central Pollution Board. He mentioned that state pollution boards are responsible for enforcing these guidelines and that e-waste management rules now cover solar photovoltaic models and cells.

• Access to Public Utilities: Priyanka Chaturvedi’s Concerns

In the Rajya Sabha, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi raised an important issue regarding women's access to clean public utilities. She shared her experiences as a woman MP, highlighting the challenges faced by women in finding clean and safe toilets while conducting public work or campaigning.

• Employment for Local Youth in North East

Gaurav Gogoi’s Advocacy

Jorhat MP Gaurav Gogoi criticized the North-East Frontier Railway Zone for neglecting the region, emphasizing that many train services suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic have yet to resume. He called for the recruitment of local youth in railway positions to address unemployment in the Northeast.

Key Recommendations:

• Resumption of Services: Gogoi demanded the reintroduction of closed railway services to support connectivity in the region.

• Local Youth Employment: He emphasized the importance of filling railway vacancies with local youth to foster economic development and provide job opportunities.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

© Copyright 2024. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.