Amid significant opposition regarding the perceived reduction in power of Waqf Board, the BJP-led NDA government is preparing to introduce over 40 amendments to the Waqf Board Act. The amendments will be presented through two Bills in the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament.
The proposed legislation aims to reform the Waqf Board, including a requirement for the Board to have at least two women members. Additionally, the Bills will facilitate the registration of Waqf properties through a central portal and will work to protect the rights of the Bohra community.
One major change proposed is the removal of the Board’s power to designate any property as a ‘Waqf property.’ This change will involve repealing Section 40 of the existing Waqf Board Act.
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The Waqf Amendment Bill outlines that the Waqf Act of 1923 will be repealed. The Act of 1995 will be revised through 44 amendments to improve its functioning and operation. The proposed changes also aim to enhance inclusivity within the Waqf Board by ensuring representation for women on the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf Boards.
Key changes include renaming the Waqf Act 1995 to the “Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995.” The amendments will ensure adequate representation of all Muslim communities, including Shia, Sunni, Bohra, Aghakhani, and other backward classes. A separate Board of Auqaf is proposed for the Bohra and Aghakhani communities. Furthermore, the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf Boards will include representation for Muslim women and non-Muslims.
The proposed amendments have received support from several dargah chiefs. On Tuesday evening, some of these leaders met with Kiren Rijiju, the Minister for Minority Affairs, and expressed their backing for the new legislation.
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