BJP to Introduce Waqf (Amendment) Bill Amid Opposition Uproar

The BJP-led government plans to present the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha to address issues regarding State Waqf Boards' powers, registration and survey of waqf properties, and removal of encroachments. However, the INDIA bloc and other opposition parties have raised strong objections to the bill.

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, 1995, addressing issues related to the powers of the State Waqf Boards, registration and survey of waqf properties, and the removal of encroachments. Despite this, the INDIA bloc has announced its intention to oppose the bill, while the BJP has accused Congress and its allies of obstructing much-needed reforms.

BJP national spokesperson CR Kesavan hailed the initiative, stating that it is a response to numerous demands from the Muslim community. He asserted that the Waqf Act, originally enacted in 1954, failed to meet its objectives, leading to several grievances from the community. He emphasized that the amendments would bring about transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in the management of Waqf properties, benefitting disadvantaged sections of the Muslim community.

Conversely, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi questioned whether the bill had been discussed with BJP's allies. She stressed the importance of inclusive dialogue with all stakeholders, including parliamentarians, before introducing such amendments. IUML MP ET Muhammed Basheer, along with Congress MPs KC Venugopal and Hibi Eden, also expressed their opposition, citing concerns over the bill's impact on the rights of Waqf boards.