New Delhi [India], April 2: The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 was introduced in the Lok Sabha today, sparking strong opposition from Muslim organizations, particularly the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).
AIMPLB spokesperson Dr. Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas condemned the bill, warning of legal action and a nationwide movement if it is passed. “If this bill is passed in Parliament, we will start a nationwide movement against it. We won’t sit quietly. We will use all legal and constitutional provisions available to us and run a peaceful agitation until the proposed amendments are revoked,” he said.
Ilyas labeled the bill as discriminatory and communally motivated, criticizing the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for disregarding opposition concerns. “Sadly, the points made by Opposition members were also not taken into consideration by the JPC,” he added.
The primary concern surrounding the bill is its potential impact on the management and autonomy of Waqf properties, which serve the Muslim community. Maulana Mohammed Fazlur Rahim Mujaddidi, AIMPLB General Secretary, echoed similar concerns, calling the JPC’s review process deceptive. “JPC mahaz ek fareb hai aur ek dhokha hai (JPC is just a hoax and a fraud),” he stated.
Meanwhile, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, asserting that it is in the national interest. He dismissed the opposition as politically motivated, stating, “Today is a historic day as the Waqf Amendment Bill is being introduced in the Lok Sabha. Not only crores of Muslims but the whole country will support it. Those opposing it are doing so for political reasons.” Rijiju further added that the bill has been carefully crafted and that logical concerns would be addressed in Parliament.
The bill’s introduction follows extensive discussions and preparation, with the government asserting that it aims to improve the administration and transparency of Waqf properties. However, with mounting opposition from Muslim organizations and political parties, a heated debate is expected in the coming days.