Controversy Grows Over Waqf Amendment Bill as Muslim Leaders Voice Concerns

 Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh – April 2: The Waqf Amendment Bill is set to be introduced in the Lok Sabha today, drawing strong opposition from Muslim leaders. Among them, Lucknow's Eidgah Imam, Maulana Khalid Rasheed Firangi Mahali, expressed concerns over the proposed amendments, stating that Waqf is an essential part of Islamic religious practice and should remain exclusively under Muslim jurisdiction.

Speaking to ANI, Maulana Firangi Mahali emphasized, "Waqf is an integral part of our religion, created by Muslims and meant for the benefit of Muslims. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board, along with various other Muslim organizations, has made it clear that these amendments are not in the best interests of Waqf properties. The suggestions provided by these organizations should have been incorporated into the Bill, but they have been ignored. Consequently, we strongly oppose this Bill."

As Parliament reconvenes today, the legislative agenda indicates that Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju will present the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, for consideration and passage. The Bill, aimed at amending the Waqf Act of 1995, is scheduled to be tabled following Question Hour, with an extensive eight-hour discussion planned, subject to extension.

Initially introduced in the Lok Sabha in August 2024, the Bill was subsequently referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee led by Jagdambika Pal for further examination. The proposed amendments seek to address the existing challenges in regulating and managing Waqf properties by enhancing administrative efficiency and governance mechanisms.

Key provisions of the Amendment Bill include redefining the legal framework surrounding Waqf properties, streamlining the registration process, integrating modern technology for record management, and bolstering the role of Waqf Boards to prevent mismanagement and corruption.

The Waqf Act of 1995, originally enacted to oversee Waqf properties, has long faced criticism for systemic inefficiencies, allegations of corruption, and issues of encroachment. The latest amendments aim to rectify these shortcomings and ensure better oversight of Waqf assets across the country.