New Delhi: In a heated session in the Lok Sabha, the government introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which has been met with significant opposition. The bill aims to amend the law governing Waqf boards, sparking accusations from opposition members that it targets minorities and violates constitutional principles. Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, stating that it addresses issues of corruption and inefficiency within the Waqf board.Combating mafia controlRijiju, introducing the bill, emphasized that it seeks to free the Waqf board from mafia control and ensure transparency in the management of Waqf properties. The Waqf board was captured by the mafia, and this bill aims to provide rights to those who have been denied, Rijiju stated. He dismissed claims that the bill interferes with religious freedom, arguing instead that it is based on recommendations from the Sachar Committee report.Congress says bill is fundamental attack on the Constitution Congress leader KC Venugopal condemned the bill as draconian and a fundamental attack on the Constitution, alleging it would incite religious conflict. This bill is designed to create division and hatred between communities, Venugopal said, linking the bill to upcoming elections in Maharashtra and Haryana. He criticized provisions allowing non-Muslims on the Waqf governing council, labeling it a direct assault on religious freedom.DMK, NCP, AIMIM voice strong oppositionDMK MP Kanimozhi argued the bill violates Article 30 of the Constitution, which protects the rights of minorities to administer their institutions. NCPs Supriya Sule called for the bill to be withdrawn or sent to a standing committee for further consultation. AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi accused the government of anti-Muslim bias, claiming the bill restricts the management of Waqf properties and discriminates against Muslims.Provisions and reforms proposedThe bill proposes renaming the Waqf Act, 1995, to the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Act. It aims to streamline the registration of Waqf properties through a central portal and establish a Central Waqf Council and state Waqf Boards, which would include representation from Muslim women and non-Muslims. Another key change would designate the District Collector as the authority to decide if a property is Waqf or government land.Governments assurance of inclusivityUnion Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh reassured that the bill is inclusive and not anti-Muslim. He stressed the need for transparency and accountability in Waqf property management. The TDP, an ally of the BJP-led NDA, supported the bill, highlighting the governments responsibility to reform and streamline the system.The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, has ignited a fierce debate in the Lok Sabha, with the government and opposition at loggerheads over its implications. While the government insists it will bring much-needed reforms and transparency, the opposition fears it will exacerbate religious tensions and undermine minority rights.
