Joint Parliamentary Committee Approves Changes to Waqf Amendment Bill

Rules On 2 Non-Muslim Members Among 14 Changes To Waqf Amendment Bill 🔗

The parliamentary committee that cleared the Waqf Amendment Bill - which seeks to make 44 changes to the way Muslim charitable properties are managed in the country - made 14 alterations to the draft as it greenlit the proposed legislation Monday.

A joint parliamentary committee has approved 14 changes to the Waqf Amendment Bill, which aims to modify the management of Muslim charitable properties in India. Key amendments include the requirement for waqf councils to have at least two non-Muslim members, a new process for determining waqf properties, and ensuring the law does not apply retrospectively to already registered properties. Opposition proposals were largely rejected, leading to concerns from critics who argue that these changes may infringe on religious freedoms and constitutional rights. The final vote on these changes is scheduled for January 29.

What are the main changes proposed in the Waqf Amendment Bill?

The main changes include requiring waqf councils to have at least two non-Muslim members, shifting the responsibility for determining waqf properties to a state-nominated officer, and ensuring that the law does not apply retrospectively to registered properties.

Why were the opposition's proposals rejected?

The opposition's proposals were rejected by a vote of 10:16, with the committee members voting along party lines, resulting in the ruling party's proposals being favored.

What concerns have been raised about the new amendments?

Critics have expressed concerns that the amendments may violate religious freedoms and constitutional rights, specifically Articles 15 and 30, which protect the right to practice a religion and allow minority communities to manage their educational institutions.