The Modi government is gearing up to introduce the Waqf Board Amendment Bill in Parliament, stirring up the political atmosphere. Former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi has voiced his opinion, stating that the Waqf system should move beyond political paranoia.
Naqvi made it clear that the Waqf system needs to break free from the obsession with 'Touch Me Not' politics, and communal attacks on inclusive reforms are unacceptable.
Meanwhile, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has clearly stated that any interference with the legal status and powers of the Waqf Board will not be tolerated.
The AIMPLB has also urged both NDA allies and opposition parties to completely reject such measures and to ensure that such amendments are not passed in Parliament.
According to sources, the government is planning to introduce a bill in Parliament to amend the 1995 law governing the Waqf Board to ensure more accountability and transparency in their operations, and to mandate the inclusion of women in these bodies. This move is in response to demands from within the Muslim community.
The amendment bill will require the Waqf boards to register their properties with district collectors to ensure accurate valuation.
SQR Ilyas, spokesperson for the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, stated that it is essential to clarify that any changes to the Waqf Act, 2013 that alter the nature of Waqf properties or make it easier for them to be appropriated by the government or any individual are unacceptable. Similarly, any reduction or restriction of the powers of Waqf boards will not be tolerated.
It should be noted that the central government is preparing to introduce a bill in Parliament to amend the 1995 law governing the Waqf Board. It is expected that this amendment bill will be considered in this session of Parliament. Just last Friday, the Cabinet approved a proposal to make 40 amendments to the Waqf Act. Once the amendment bill is passed in Parliament, the unchecked powers of the Waqf Board will be curtailed, and the board will not be able to declare ownership over any property without verification.
