Government has maintained the draft legislation is seeking to enhance the administration of waqf properties.

Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 Latest News Today: In a major development, the bill seeking to amend the 1995 Waqf Act for more centralized control of Islamic charitable endowments was on Thursday referred to a joint parliamentary panel for further scrutiny following the Congess-led INDI Alliance's opposition against the proposed law in its present form.

In the meanwhile, the parties such as Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Samajwadi Party (SP), and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) criticized the proposed amendments that included the inclusion of non-Muslims in waqf governance stating that they will encroach on the religious rights.

On the other hand, the government has maintained the draft legislation is seeking to enhance the administration of waqf properties that Muslims dedicate for religious or philanthropic purposes as part of piety to perpetuate charitable activities beyond their lifetime.

SP leader Akhilesh Yadav said, “When other religious boards do not have non-believers, why non-Muslims should be included in waqf boards? The reality is BJP [Bharatiya Janata Party] has brought this bill for its few hardline supporters who are frustrated.”

Besides, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi maintained that the Parliament does not have the competence to make the proposed amendments. 

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