Waqf Amendment Bill 2024: Concerns Over Marginalization of Indian Muslims

The BJP government’s proposed amendments to the Waqf Act of 1995 have sparked significant backlash from the Muslim community, Muslim Mirror reported yesterday.

The bill aims to introduce 40 amendments, revoking several existing clauses governing Waqf boards. However, critics argue that the hidden agenda is to census Waqf properties established in 1947, particularly as Hindutva forces demand control over key Muslim sites like the Varanasi mosque and the Mathura Idgah.

Muslim leaders claim this move seeks to nationalize Waqf properties, undermining the community’s control over assets that are vital for their welfare. They advocate for a governance model similar to the Gurudwara Act of 1925, which would empower Muslims to manage their resources independently.

AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi has condemned the bill, asserting it infringes on religious freedoms and threatens the autonomy of Waqf boards. The proposed amendments have raised fears of further marginalization and economic disenfranchisement of Indian Muslims.