The Waqf Amendment Bill has been cleared in the Lok Sabha, which is a big step towards the administration of Waqf properties in India. Waqf is an Arabic word meaning permanent dedication of property for religious, charitable, or philanthropic objectives.
The amendment bill is intended to consolidate the Waqf property administration, making it effective and making use of Waqf properties for the public good. The amendments to be brought are aimed at filling loopholes in the current laws to avoid abuse of Waqf properties and ensure transparency in their administration.
Major features of the amendment bill are the setting up of a National Waqf Development Corporation to supervise the development of Waqf properties and sanction finances for their maintenance. The bill also suggests the formation of a state-level Waqf council to oversee the management of Waqf properties and solve grievances concerning their administration.
The Lok Sabha passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill has been viewed as a major milestone towards safeguarding the rights of Muslim minorities and ensuring the efficient administration of Waqf properties. Yet, the future of the bill in the Rajya Sabha is unsure, with opposition parties set to examine its provisions thoroughly.
Main Points of the Waqf Amendment Bill
Creation of a National Waqf Development Corporation: to regulate the development of Waqf properties and give financial support for their maintenance.
Formation of a state-level Waqf council: to check the management of Waqf properties and solve problems related to their management.
Improvement of Waqf administration: to stop the mismanagement of Waqf properties and ensure transparency in their administration.
Protection of Muslim minority rights: through ensuring the effective administration of Waqf properties and the protection of their interests.