The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) has approved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, incorporating 14 amendments. The bill aims to reform the management and administration of Waqf properties in India.
Key Amendments:
Inclusion of Non-Muslim Members: The bill proposes the inclusion of non-Muslim members in state Waqf boards and the Central Waqf Council. This provision has been met with opposition from various political parties, including the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Trinamool Congress (TMC), and All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), who have questioned the necessity and implications of such inclusion.
Empowerment of District Collectors: The bill grants district collectors the authority to conduct surveys of Waqf properties and resolve disputes related to Waqf land. This centralization of power has raised concerns among opposition members regarding its potential impact on the autonomy of Waqf boards.
Renaming of the Act: The bill proposes renaming the existing Waqf Act of 1995 to the 'Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act.' The rationale behind this change has been questioned by some committee members.
Committee Proceedings:
The JPC has held multiple meetings to discuss the bill, with heated debates and differing opinions among members. Opposition parties have expressed concerns over certain provisions, while the government emphasizes the need for reforms to enhance transparency and efficiency in Waqf management.
The committee has been granted an extension to continue its deliberations, with the final report now expected to be presented during the Budget Session of Parliament in 2025.
The approval of the bill and its amendments marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to reform Waqf property management in India. The implementation of these changes will depend on the final approval of the bil
l by Parliament.
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