NEW DELHI: Prominent Muslim organizations have strongly opposed a controversial bill proposing amendments to the Waqf Act of 1995, vowing to resist any changes that could weaken the current protections for Waqf properties. The bill, which has sparked significant backlash from opposition parties, has been referred to a joint parliamentary committee.
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) expressed concerns that any amendment to the Waqf Act altering the nature of Waqf properties or enabling easier government or individual takeover would be unacceptable. They emphasized that any attempt to reduce or restrict the powers of Waqf boards would also be met with resistance.
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind (M) criticized the bill as being motivated by a desire to seize Waqf properties, while AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi described the move as part of the BJP’s broader Hindutva agenda aimed at appropriating community assets.
Dr. S. Q. R. Ilyas, spokesperson for the AIMPLB, warned that the proposed amendments, which include approximately 40 changes to the existing Waqf Act, threaten the constitutional and Sharia-protected status of Waqf properties. He underscored that this issue could extend beyond Muslims, potentially affecting the endowments of other religious communities, including Sikhs, Christians, and Hindus.
Maulana Mahmood Madani, President of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, highlighted that the bill could lead to unnecessary government interference, undermining the original status of Waqf and violating the principle of divine ownership. He specifically criticized the proposal to grant district collectors authority over Waqf property disputes, which he argued would effectively nullify the Waqf Board’s role.
Madani also condemned the potential elimination of protections under the Limitation Act of 1963 and the termination of certain Waqf practices, calling these measures an attack on the sanctity of Waqf properties. He urged the government to withdraw the proposed amendments and engage in comprehensive consultations with religious leaders and Waqf management bodies.
Muslim organizations are calling on the community, political parties, and concerned citizens to unite in opposition to these amendments, advocating for the protection of religious rights and freedoms.
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