GUWAHATI: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday, April 2 tabled the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha for discussion and passage, sparking strong protests from the Opposition, who argue that the proposed law is unconstitutional.
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Addressing the House after tabling the bill, Rijiju stated that the government and the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) had received numerous memoranda and suggestions from various stakeholders and experts regarding the legislation. The bill was presented for consideration and passing following the day's Question Hour, with an eight-hour discussion scheduled, subject to extension if necessary.
The amendment seeks to improve the administration and management of waqf properties across India by addressing the shortcomings of the existing law. Among the key changes proposed are the renaming of the Act, updating the definition of waqf, streamlining the registration process, and incorporating technology to enhance the management of waqf records. The government asserts that these reforms will strengthen the efficiency of
Waqf boards and ensure better governance of waqf properties.
Despite the government's insistence on the bill's necessity, its introduction has been met with fierce resistance from Opposition parties, who have raised concerns over its implications and constitutionality.
