Opposition Unites to Challenge Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in Lok Sabha

Congress MPs KC Venugopal and Hibi Eden, along with the Samajwadi Party, have submitted notices to oppose the introduction of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha. Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju is set to introduce the bill, which has faced significant objections from multiple opposition parties.

In a significant political development, Congress Lok Sabha MP KC Venugopal on Thursday delivered a notice opposing the introduction of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha. Fellow Congress MP Hibi Eden, along with the Samajwadi Party, also lodged objections against the bill.

The BJP-led government plans to introduce the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which aims to amend the Waqf Act of 1995. The bill seeks to address issues related to the powers of State Waqf Boards, registration, survey of waqf properties, and removal of encroachments. Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju is set to table the bill.

Opposition voices have been loud. Congress MP K Suresh stated that the government has made a hasty decision without consulting relevant Muslim organizations and stakeholders. Similarly, IUML MP ET Muhammed Basheer underscored the seriousness of the issue, accusing the government of aiming to capture the rights of the Waqf Board. Furthermore, the bill proposes to rename the Waqf Act, 1995, to the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995, and introduces several other key amendments.

Additional bills are on the docket, including the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, to repeal the 1923 Mussalman Wakf Act. Opposition MPs have pledged to vehemently oppose these moves, calling for further scrutiny and referral to a Standing Committee.

(With inputs from agencies.)