After a long 12-hour debate, the Waqf Amendment Bill was passed by the Lok Sabha in a dramatic late-night session with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. The Rajya Sabha will now hear the measure, which aims to amend the 1995 Waqf Act, for additional discussion.
Key Provisions and Contentious Changes
The bill introduces several controversial provisions, including the mandatory inclusion of two non-Muslim members in Waqf Boards and the Central Waqf Council. It also states that only individuals who have practiced Islam for at least five years can donate properties to Waqf. Additionally, the bill proposes that government properties identified as Waqf will no longer belong to the government, with the local Collector deciding ownership.
The government has defended the bill, arguing that it is a property management issue, not a religious matter. Union Minister Amit Shah highlighted instances where Waqf properties allegedly included lands belonging to temples, government institutions, and other religions. He asserted that the bill would correct past irregularities and prevent misuse.
Opposition’s Strong Resistance
The Opposition, led by Congress and AIMIM, called the bill unconstitutional and an attempt to “defame and disenfranchise minorities.” Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi accused the government of using the bill as a political tool ahead of elections, while AIMIM’s Asaduddin Owaisi tore a copy of the bill in protest, likening it to Mahatma Gandhi’s defiance of British laws.
Legal Difficulty Ahead
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board has declared its intention to launch a statewide protest campaign and contest the bill in court. The fight over Waqf properties is far from over, especially with the Rajya Sabha debate approaching.
