Waqf board amendment bill to introduce women members, faces opposition from clerics: Reports

New Delhi: The central government has proposed an Amendment Bill to reform Waqf boards, which manage and protect mosques and Islamic religious endowments, by recommending the inclusion of women members. According to government sources, the bill mandates the appointment of two women to the boards in all states and the central council, addressing the current absence of female members.

Amendments to restrict powers and increase transparency

The BJP-led NDA government plans to amend the Waqf Act to restrict the powers of the Waqf boards. The Union Cabinet approved 40 amendments to the act, aiming to bring transparency to the management of Waqf properties. The proposed bill addresses concerns that Waqf property, once assigned, cannot be challenged or reversed in any court of law. Government sources highlighted that even in Muslim-majority countries like Saudi Arabia and Oman, such laws do not exist.

Commitment to Gender Justice

Government sources emphasized the importance of gender justice, noting that Muslim women and children suffer significantly under the current system. They pointed out that divorced women and their children often lack rights. The new bill aims to address this issue by ensuring women's representation in Waqf boards at both state and central levels. The proposed amendments have faced criticism from Muslim clerics and political leaders.

Asaduddin Owaisi, a prominent political leader, accused the BJP of targeting Waqf boards and properties as part of its 'Hindutva agenda.' Maulana Khalid Rasheed, an executive member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, argued that existing laws are adequate for Waqf management and suggested that any amendments should involve consultation with stakeholders.

Government's Response to Opposition

In response to the opposition, government sources accused certain Muslim clerics of creating a "dangerous narrative" by making false statements that Muslim land will be taken away. The new bill will include a provision ensuring that only Muslims can create Waqf properties, aiming to alleviate concerns about the misuse of Waqf properties.

Government sources also referenced the Sachar Committee, which studied the socio-economic conditions of Muslims in India. The committee recommended increased transparency in the Waqf boards, aligning with the proposed amendments.