Waqf (Amendment) Bill Sparks Controversy Among Muslim Leaders

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill has prompted mixed reactions from Muslim leaders. While some support amendments for better management, they oppose the inclusion of non-Muslims on the Waqf Board, citing Shariat law. The bill aims to address issues like land mafia involvement and ensure equitable inheritance for women.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill has elicited a spectrum of responses from various Muslim leaders. Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, National President of All India Muslim Jamaat, emphasized on Thursday the need for amendments but criticized the inclusion of non-Muslims on the Waqf Board as contrary to Shariat and legal standards.

"Waqf should be viewed from an entirely Islamic perspective," Barelvi stated. He underscored that the Board, originally intended to manage lands donated by elders, has been diverted from its purpose. He alleged that officials have been involved in corrupt practices such as buying and selling land with the aid of land mafias. Despite supporting the amendments, Barelvi firmly opposed the appointment of non-Muslim members and district officers.

Echoing similar sentiments, Congress MLA from Bhopal Arif Masood and AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi have voiced their objections, labeling the bill as hazardous. Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, stating it resulted from comprehensive consultations and aims to counteract mafia control of Waqf Boards and protect women's inheritance rights.