A delegation led by Maulana Mahmood Madani presented 28 proposals to the JPC and emphasised that several aspects of the bill were unacceptable to the Muslim community
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — A Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind (JUH) delegation told the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) that the proposed Waqf Amendment Bill poses a grave threat to both Muslim Waqf properties and the broader interests of the country.
During a three-hour meeting in the Parliament Annexe here on Monday, the Jamiat delegation led by the organisation’s president Maulana Mahmood Madani presented 28 proposals to the JPC and emphasised that several aspects of the bill were unacceptable to the Muslim community.
One of the key concerns raised was the amendment requiring a person to be a practicing Muslim for at least five years to serve on the Waqf Board. Madani also questioned the inclusion of non-Muslim members in the Waqf committees, describing it as problematic. Another critical issue brought up by the delegation was the government’s proposed appointment of collectors to oversee waqf properties, a move that, according to Madani, undermines the autonomy of the Waqf Board.
Senior advocate Rauf Rahim, also part of the delegation, provided a detailed review of the constitutional implications of the bill. He pointed out that the amendment could pave the way for greater government control over religious institutions, infringing on the rights of the Muslim community. Rahim further stressed that even though the bill has not yet been passed, there has already been widespread demolition of religious sites. “Over 1000 dargahs, mosques, cemeteries, and shrines have reportedly been demolished across the country,” Rahim said, voicing concerns over the future of Muslim religious properties under the amended law.
The delegation expressed hope that the JPC would carefully consider their proposals and take steps to alleviate the concerns of Muslims across India. The committee assured the Jamiat delegation that their views and proposals would be considered.
The meeting comes at a time when tensions are high, with many Muslims fearing that the bill could lead to further erosion of religious rights and increased government interference in Islamic religious affairs.
