Waqf Boards Captured By Mafia, Govt Not Against Any Religious Body: Kiren Rijiju

Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju introduced a bill on Thursday aimed at amending the Waqf Act of 1995, which has sparked significant opposition from various political parties. Critics have labeled the bill as “draconian,” asserting that it seeks to create religious divisions within the country. The government, however, defends the legislation as necessary for regulating Waqf properties, which they claim have been mismanaged by mafia groups.

The proposed legislation seeks to rename the Waqf Act to the “Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act.” It aims to enhance the registration process for Waqf properties through a central portal and includes provisions to ensure that funds received by Waqf boards are used for the welfare of vulnerable groups, such as widows and orphans. Notably, the bill also mandates that the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf Boards include two women members and allows for non-Muslims to be part of the Waqf governing council, a point that has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition.

Congress leader KC Venugopal expressed strong opposition, calling the bill a “fundamental attack” on the Constitution and warning that it could incite conflict among communities. He emphasized concerns that the bill would exacerbate tensions over mosque disputes and undermine the autonomy of religious bodies. Other opposition leaders echoed similar sentiments, arguing that the bill represents an unwarranted interference in religious affairs and questioning the timing of its introduction, especially with upcoming elections in Maharashtra and Haryana.

In defense of the bill, Rijiju argued that it aims to rectify past mistakes and improve the transparency and efficiency of Waqf boards. He contended that the legislation does not infringe upon the rights of any religious group, countering claims that it could lead to communal discord.