New Delhi: The Union government on Thursday introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha, aiming to overhaul the management of Waqf properties in India. The bill seeks to address concerns over the administration of these properties, often plagued by issues of mismanagement and encroachment.
Key provisions of the proposed legislation include renaming the Waqf Act, 1995, to the “Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995.” It also aims to redefine the powers of State Waqf Boards, enhance the registration and survey of Waqf properties, and implement measures to remove encroachments.
While the government maintains that the bill is intended to improve the management of Waqf properties and benefit the Muslim community, it has faced opposition from certain quarters. Critics argue that the proposed changes could lead to government interference in religious matters.
The bill has been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for further scrutiny and deliberation.
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Here’s a summary of the key points from the article and current events:
- The Bill: The government introduced a bill to amend the Waqf Act, 1995. This act governs the management of Waqf properties in India. Waqf refers to properties dedicated for religious or charitable purposes under Islamic law.
- What it proposes:
- Renaming: The bill proposes renaming the act to the “Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995.”
- Powers of Boards: It aims to address issues related to the powers of State Waqf Boards.
- Registration and Survey: It seeks to improve the registration and survey of Waqf properties.
- Removal of Encroachments: The bill might include measures for removing encroachments on Waqf properties.
- Redefining Waqf: Some reports suggest it might redefine “waqf” to include only those established by Muslims practicing Islam for at least five years.
- Opposition: The bill faces opposition from some Muslim organizations and political parties who view it as government interference in religious matters.
Current Status:
- The bill was introduced on August 8th, 2024.
- It has been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for further discussion