New Delhi [India], April 1: Union Minister Giriraj Singh reaffirmed on Tuesday that the government will table the Waqf Amendment Bill like any other legislation, assuring that no bill introduced in Parliament will go against the Constitution.
Speaking to reporters, Singh stated, “The government tables every bill; it will do the same with the Waqf Amendment Bill. Congress should understand that no bill is brought in Parliament against the Constitution.”
Calls for Constructive Debate
Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju urged all parties to engage in an informed and constructive discussion on the bill. He emphasized that extensive consultations have taken place, both inside and outside Parliament.
“My appeal to all is that as we prepare to introduce the Waqf Amendment Bill, we must participate in the debate and discussion in the House. The JPC has conducted the most comprehensive consultation process in India’s democratic history,” Rijiju said.
He also addressed concerns raised by critics, clarifying that Waqf laws have existed since before independence and that the bill does not infringe upon anyone’s rights. “Some are falsely claiming that the government is trying to take away the properties and rights of Muslims. These misleading statements harm our society,” Rijiju added.
Opposition’s Stand
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh strongly opposed the bill, labeling it a “direct attack on the Constitution.” He challenged other opposition and “secular” parties, including JD(U) and TDP, to take a clear stance.
“Every opposition party opposes it, but the question is, what is the take of ‘secular’ parties JD(U) and TDP? If they implement it, we will oppose it democratically,” Ramesh said.
Bill’s Key Reforms
Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed that the Waqf Amendment Bill will be tabled during the ongoing Budget session, set to conclude on April 4.
Officially named the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Bill, the amendment aims to tackle longstanding issues such as:
- Digitization of Waqf records for transparency
- Enhanced audits to curb financial mismanagement
- Improved legal mechanisms to reclaim illegally occupied properties
- Streamlined governance to reduce corruption and encroachments
The Waqf Act of 1995, which governs Waqf properties in India, has been criticized over the years for inefficiencies and mismanagement, prompting the need for these amendments.
As the bill nears its parliamentary discussion, both government and opposition leaders remain firm on their stances, setting the stage for a heated debate in the coming days.