BJP-Led Government to Introduce Landmark Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024

The BJP-led government plans to introduce the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha, aiming to address issues related to State Waqf Boards, registration of waqf properties, and removal of encroachments. The bill aims to overhaul the 1995 act and ensure representation of different Muslim communities.

In a significant move, the BJP-led government is set to introduce the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The bill aims to amend the Waqf Act of 1995, addressing critical issues related to the powers of the State Waqf Boards, the registration and survey of waqf properties, and the removal of encroachments.

Sources indicate that the Samajwadi Party plans to oppose the bill in Parliament. Concurrently, the government is withdrawing the previously introduced Waqf Properties (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Bill, 2014 from the Rajya Sabha. Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju will also introduce The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, which seeks to repeal the outdated Mussalman Wakf Act of 1923.

The proposed amendments aim to rename the Waqf Act, 1995 as the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995. They provide for broader representation in both the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards, ensure the inclusion of Muslim women and non-Muslims, and establish a separate Board of Auqaf for Boharas and Aghakhanis. Additionally, the bill seeks to streamline the registration of waqfs, reform the Tribunal structure, and create a central portal for better control and transparency.