New Delhi [India], October 23 : After TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee reportedly smashed a glass bottle during a heated exchange with BJP MP Abhijit Gangopadhyay in the JPC meeting on Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Deputy General Secretary, A Raja on Wednesday said that the incident was an unpleasant one and and further added that the proceedings in the meeting were confidential and not meant to be disclosed.
Taking to social media X, Raja wrote in a post "In spite of the unpleasant incident that took place in the meeting, the attitude and manner by which the meetings are conducted in haste by the chairman, created doubts in the mind of the members and public that Justice will not be secured."
"It is unfortunate that the chairman of the Joint working committee on Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 conducted a press conference and transpired the proceedings/happenings in the meeting whatsoever; knowing fully well that the proceedings are confidential and not to be disclosed. Let us fight to uphold our democratic and secular values despite the hurdles, " he added.
The TMC MP was suspended for one day under rule 347 by a division of vote of 9-7. It means he cannot attend the next meeting. After the suspension, he left the meeting.
During the JPC meeting held on Waqf Bill, many eminent personalities, including retired judges and Supreme Court lawyers, were present.
According to the sources, Kalyan Banerjee wanted to speak out of turn. He had already spoken thrice and wanted to get a chance again during the presentation. But BJP MP Abhijit objected. This ensued a heated exchange between them, where sources said both used abusive language.
Meanwhile, Banerjee picked up a glass water bottle, hit it on the table, and hurt himself. After this, he threw the broken bottle towards the chairman. Due to the incident, the meeting adjourned for some time. Soon after, Banerjee was taken for medical aid, wherein he received four stitches in his hand, sources said.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aims to bring significant reforms, including digitization of records, stricter audits, increased transparency, and legal mechanisms to reclaim illegally occupied waqf properties.