Waqf Amendment Bill Sparks Political Dispute: Empowerment or Division?

The Waqf Amendment Bill is causing a political stir in India, with BJP arguing it empowers disadvantaged Muslims, while AIMPLB and opposition accuse the government of communal intentions. The bill aims to digitize and reform Waqf properties, ensuring transparency and addressing misuse. Protests against it have already begun.

The proposed Waqf Amendment Bill has ignited a heated political debate between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and various opposition groups, including the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). BJP leader CR Kesavan claims the bill will empower underprivileged segments of the Muslim community, particularly children, women, and widows. Kesavan criticized the Congress' 1995 Waqf Act as repressive and discriminatory towards disadvantaged Muslims.

The AIMPLB, along with opposition parties, alleges that the bill has been introduced with communal intentions, aiming to undermine the rights of Muslim minorities. BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, who heads the Joint Parliamentary Committee, countered these claims, stating the bill is intended to benefit minorities by reforming Waqf laws. However, protests against the bill have already taken place at Jantar Mantar, with more planned in cities like Patna and Vijayawada.

The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, seeks to introduce reforms such as digitization, enhanced audits, and improved transparency of Waqf properties. It aims to address the misuse of these assets, ensuring they are used for their intended purposes. Despite protests, the government maintains that the amendments will benefit the Muslim community and the nation.

(With inputs from agencies.)