Government to Introduce Waqf Board Amendment Bill
New Delhi, 2024-08-08 – Political tensions are high regarding the upcoming Waqf Board Amendment Bill, which the Modi government plans to introduce in the Lok Sabha tomorrow. Minority Minister Kiren Rijiju will present the bill in the House at 11 am. While the ruling NDA aims to pass the bill, the opposition is expected to strongly oppose it.
The proposed amendment, known as the Waqf Board Act Amendment Bill 2024, aims to streamline the management and governance of Waqf properties. This includes:
Renaming the Waqf Act 1995: The act will be renamed the “Integrated Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995.”
Enhanced Representation: The Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards will now have proper representation from both Muslims and non-Muslims.
Simplified Registration: The process of registering Waqf properties will be centralized through a national portal and database.
Improved Tribunal Structure: The tribunal system will be strengthened by adding two members. Appeals against tribunal orders can now be filed within 90 days.
* Survey Commissioner Appointment: The District Magistrate will be designated as the Survey Commissioner for surveying Waqf properties.
Muslim Organizations Respond
Various organizations, including the All India Sajjadanashin Council, have reacted to the proposed amendment. While some groups have welcomed the bill, others have expressed concerns. The Sajjadanashin Council praised the government’s efforts to increase transparency and accountability within the Waqf Board system. However, other organizations have criticized the lack of mention of dargahs in the current Waqf Act and demanded the creation of a separate Dargah Board. They also alleged that the current Waqf Boards operate in a dictatorial manner with little transparency.