Amidst debates over the perceived reduction of Waqf Board powers, the BJP-led NDA Government is set to introduce over 40 amendments to the Waqf Act through two new Bills in the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament. These Bills aim to initiate significant reforms in the Waqf Board, including the mandatory inclusion of two women members on its panel.
Key features of the proposed amendments include the registration of Waqf properties through a central portal and the protection of the Bohra community’s rights. Additionally, the Amendment Bill proposes to revoke the Board’s authority to declare any property as ‘Waqf property’ by repealing Section 40 of the existing Waqf Board Act.
The Waqf Amendment Bill outlines the revocation of the Waqf Act 1923 and the modification of the Waqf Act of 1995 by introducing 44 amendments for improved functionality and operation. These amendments aim to enhance inclusivity within the Waqf Board by ensuring women’s representation on both the Central Waqf Council and State boards.
Significant changes in the new legislation include renaming the Waqf Act 1995 to the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995. The amendments ensure adequate representation of all Muslim communities, including Shia, Sunni, Bohra, Aghakhani, and other backward classes.
A separate Board of Auqaf is proposed for Bohras and Aghakhanis, and both the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards will have representation from Muslim women and non-Muslims.
These proposed changes have garnered support from various dargah chiefs. On Tuesday evening, some of these leaders met with Kiren Rijiju, the Minister for Minority Affairs, to express their support for the legislation.
On social media platform X, Union Minister Rijiju shared, “A delegation of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC), comprising the most revered and prominent Sajjadanashins from various Dargahs across Bharat, met me under the leadership of Syed Naseruddin Chishty, Chairman and Successor of the Present Spiritual Head of Ajmer Dargah, to discuss important issues concerning the Muslim community. They lauded and praised the efforts of PM Modi towards the welfare of the entire community and minorities in general.”
Reports indicate that Waqf Boards manage a land bank of nearly 8.7 lakh properties, covering a total area of about 9.4 lakh acres.
