Asaduddin Owaisi Slams Proposed Waqf Act Amendments

AIMIM chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi has sharply criticized the BJP-led NDA government’s proposed amendments to the Waqf Act. According to Owaisi, these changes will significantly curtail the powers of the Waqf Board, leading to administrative chaos and undermining the board’s autonomy.

Proposed Amendments: A Threat to Autonomy

The amendments, which the Cabinet approved on Friday, aim to impose stricter regulations on how the Waqf Board manages its properties. Sources suggest that the bill, including these changes, will be introduced in Parliament next week. The proposed amendments require all claims made by the Waqf Board on properties to undergo mandatory verification.

Owaisi’s Criticism

Owaisi has accused the BJP of pursuing a “Hindutva agenda,” alleging that the real motive behind the amendments is to seize Waqf properties. He argues that these changes are a direct assault on religious freedom, intended to strip the Waqf Board of its autonomy and disrupt its operations.

Impact on Religious Properties

The Waqf Boards manage approximately 8,70,000 properties, encompassing around 9,40,000 acres. Owaisi claims that the amendments will lead to disputes over many dargahs and mosques, which he argues are falsely claimed by the BJP-RSS. He contends that the proposed verification process will open the door for these religious sites to be questioned and potentially seized.

Government’s Stance

In response, the government maintains that the amendments are designed to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of Waqf properties. However, Owaisi remains adamant that these changes are detrimental to religious institutions and freedoms.

Conclusion

The proposed amendments to the Waqf Act have sparked significant controversy. Asaduddin Owaisi’s strong opposition highlights concerns over the potential impact on religious autonomy and the management of Waqf properties. With the bill expected to be introduced in Parliament soon, the debate over these changes is likely to intensify.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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