Chicago – August 10, 2024
On Thursday, the opposition strongly objected to the introduction of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha, with several INDIA bloc MPs arguing that it attacks the Constitution and unfairly targets Muslims.
Congress MP KC Venugopal opposed the move, accusing the government of violating religious freedom and weakening the federal system. Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha. Still, it was quickly sent to a joint parliamentary committee after strong opposition from MPs.
The Bill removes section 40, which allows waqf boards to decide if a property is waqf, and gives district collectors the power to determine if a government property is waqf. It also changes the makeup of the Central Waqf Council and state waqf boards, including representation for Muslim women and non-Muslims. Additionally, it proposes a separate ‘Board of Auqaf’ for Boharas and Aghakhanis.
Opposition MPs argued that the Bill was unconstitutional, citing Articles 14, 25, and 26. They claimed it prevents Muslims from managing their affairs and could create division. TMC MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay called it unconstitutional and anti-federal, while DMK MP Kanimozhi said it targets religious minorities. AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi criticized the Bill as discriminatory and seriously attacking the Constitution.
