Government Plans Changes to Waqf Board Act, Faces Opposition Criticism
New Delhi, India – The government is planning to introduce amendments to the Waqf Board Act in the Rajya Sabha this week. These changes aim to restrict the powers of the Waqf Board and enhance inclusivity by ensuring women’s representation on the Central Waqf Council and state boards. The budget session of Parliament concludes on August 12.
According to sources, the government consulted various Muslim intellectuals and organizations before proposing 32-40 amendments. The Waqf Act, first passed in 1954 and amended in 1995 and 2013, gave significant powers to the Waqf Boards. The new amendments will require the Waqf Board to register its properties with the District Collector’s office for evaluation.
UP minister Danish Azad Ansari stated that the amendments aim to prevent the misuse and encroachment of Waqf properties, ensuring they are used for the benefit of the Muslim community, such as building hospitals, schools, and colleges.
However, the proposed changes have faced sharp criticism from the opposition. CPI General Secretary D Raja accused the government of diverting from real issues and imposing a sinister agenda. Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav claimed that the BJP wants to take away the rights of Muslim brothers, while RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav argued that the government is not focused on public welfare but on polarizing politics.
With strong opposition, the Parliament is expected to witness heated debates when the amendments are introduced.
Doubts Revealed
Waqf Board Act -: The Waqf Board Act is a law in India that governs the management of properties donated for religious or charitable purposes by Muslims. These properties are called ‘Waqf’.
Rajya Sabha -: The Rajya Sabha is one of the two houses of the Parliament of India. It is also known as the Council of States and represents the states and union territories.
amendments -: Amendments are changes or additions made to a law or a document. In this case, the government wants to change some rules in the Waqf Board Act.
opposition leaders -: Opposition leaders are politicians who belong to political parties that are not in power. They often criticize and challenge the decisions of the ruling government.
District Collector -: A District Collector is a government official in charge of administration and revenue collection in a district. They play a key role in implementing government policies at the district level.
Parliament session -: A Parliament session is a period during which the members of Parliament meet to discuss and pass laws. The current session will end on August 12.