Controversy Erupts as Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 Introduced in Lok Sabha

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi asserted that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 is not targeting any community, despite strong opposition from various political parties. The bill aims to amend the Waqf Act, 1995, introducing changes to administration, registration, and governance of Waqf properties.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi stated on Thursday that the central government is not targeting any specific group by proposing amendments to the Waqf Board Act. 'We are not targeting anyone. The Opposition wants to create an atmosphere. Our minister will explain in detail when he introduces the bill,' Joshi commented during a conversation with ANI.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in Lok Sabha. Congress MP KC Venugopal opposed the bill, describing it as an 'attack on the federal system.' He said, 'This bill is aimed at the Maharashtra and Haryana elections. It disrespects the faiths of other religions and attacks the federal system,' during his speech.

Other opposition MPs, including DMK's Kanimozhi, JMM's Mahua Maji, and RJD's Misa Bharti, vocalized their objections, labeling the bill as discriminatory towards certain religious groups. Meanwhile, BJP leaders such as Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi and spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla defended the bill, claiming it addresses longstanding issues within the Waqf Board system.

The bill proposes amendments to the Waqf Act, 1995, aiming to enhance the competencies of State Waqf Boards in dealing with registration, surveys, and removal of encroachments on Waqf properties. It ensures representation of Muslim women and non-Muslims, alongside streamlining registration processes through a central portal.

(With inputs from agencies.)