Passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024
By: Arvind Jadhav
New Delhi: The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, has been passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 votes in favor and 95 against. This bill aims to amend the Waqf Act, 1995, to improve the management and efficiency of Waqf boards and properties. The bill was passed by the Lok Sabha on April 3 and now awaits the President’s assent to become a law.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, has introduced several key provisions to improve the management and efficiency of Waqf boards and properties. *Key Provisions* include __Inclusion of Non-Muslim Members__, allowing non-Muslim members in the Central Waqf Council, Board of Auqaf, and State Waqf Board. The __Constitution of Waqf Tribunal__ introduces an appeal provision to the High Court and revises the Tribunal’s composition to include a member knowledgeable in Muslim laws. Additionally, the bill omits __Waqf by User__ provisions but ensures this change won’t affect prior waqf by the user. Lastly, the __Wrongful Claim of Waqf on Government Property__ provision ensures government properties identified or declared as waqf won’t be deemed waqf property.
Reactions to the Bill’s Passage
The bill’s passage has been met with both support and opposition. Proponents argue that the amendments will improve the management and efficiency of Waqf boards and properties, while opponents have raised concerns about the inclusion of non-Muslim members and the potential impact on the Muslim community’s autonomy in managing Waqf properties.
Significance of the Bill
The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, is a significant development in the governance of Waqf properties in India. Its passage marks a major milestone in the efforts to reform the Waqf Act, 1995, and improve the management and efficiency of Waqf boards and properties.
