There are reports that the Centre intends to introduce a bill that would limit the Waqf Board’s power, raising issues with religious freedom. Asaduddin Owaisi, the chief of AIMIM, expressed his disapproval on Sunday, alleging that the Modi administration was trying to undermine the Waqf Board’s independence.
Owaisi’s Critique of Government’s Approach
Speaking to news agency ANI, Owaisi voiced his worries, stressing that the suggested modifications would infringe upon religious freedom. “The Modi government wants to take away the autonomy of the Waqf Board and interfere with its functions,” he said. He denounced the government for violating parliamentary procedure by discussing the bill with the media rather than notifying Parliament beforehand.
Allegations of Hindutva Agenda
In addition, Owaisi said that the BJP’s long-standing opposition to Waqf Boards and properties was motivated by Hindutva agenda. Any changes to the Waqf Board’s establishment and composition, he said, could lead to administrative chaos and a loss of autonomy. Owaisi believed that the Waqf Board’s independence would be seriously impacted by increased government control.
Concerns Over Property Disputes
The chief of AIMIM brought up a serious concern regarding property conflicts. He made the observation that, if the government seize greater power, it might designate certain properties as disputed and order BJP staff to perform surveys, which he felt would be biassed. Owaisi recounted incidents in which the RSS and BJP disagreed over the legal status of specific mosques and dargahs, fearing similar conflicts in the future.
Details of the Proposed Amendments
The Waqf Act is expected to be amended by the Centre; the cabinet approved forty revisions on Friday, according to a report published earlier today in India Today. The purpose of these modifications is to restrict the Waqf Board’s ability to designate any property as “Waqf property.” The proposed changes require mandatory verification for all property claims made by the Waqf Board.
Historical Context and Inclusivity Efforts
The Congress-led UPA government had strengthened the authority of the Waqf Boards through amendments to the original Waqf Act of 1995 in 2013. The new amendments aim to enhance inclusivity, ensuring women’s representation on the Central Waqf Council and state boards.
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