The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is scheduled to be presented in Parliament on Wednesday. Both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress have instructed their MPs to be present in the House, ensuring full attendance for the key legislative discussion.
Since the ruling BJP-led National Democratic Alliance and the Opposition INDIA bloc have not reached a consensus, the bill’s outcome will likely depend on the majority vote in the House. The House will introduce the bill after today’s Question Hour for consideration and approval, followed by an 8-hour discussion, which may extend if necessary.
The Lok Sabha originally introduced the bill in August last year, and the Joint Parliamentary Committee, led by Jagdambika Pal, reviewed it further. The Waqf Amendment Bill aims to amend the Waqf Act of 1995 to address various challenges related to the regulation and management of Waqf properties in India.
The proposed changes seek to improve the administration of Waqf properties by renaming the Act, updating the definition of Waqf, streamlining the registration process, and incorporating technology for better record management. These changes are designed to modernize the functioning of Waqf boards and tackle issues like mismanagement, corruption, and encroachments that have plagued the system for years.
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), representing Muslim clerics across the country, has made a public appeal to secular parties and BJP allies to reject the Bill. The AIMPLB has urged MPs to resist what it calls an attempt to “further a communal agenda” and protect the interests of the Muslim community. The stage is set for a fierce debate as Parliament prepares to consider the Waqf Amendment Bill today.
The Waqf Act of 1995, which was originally enacted to regulate Waqf properties, has long faced criticism for inefficiencies and regulatory challenges. The amendment bill seeks to address these concerns, enhance transparency, and improve the efficiency of Waqf Boards, offering a more streamlined process for managing these properties.
As Parliament begins debating the bill today, the discussions are expected to heat up, with significant political implications depending on how the vote unfolds.
Also Read: Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 To Be Tabled Today In Lok Sabha, Check Here
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