New Delhi: The Union Cabinet has approved the revised Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, incorporating 14 amendments proposed by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC).
The bill is anticipated to be introduced in the second part of the Budget Session, which begins on March 10.
Key Provisions of the Revised Bill
The amended bill aims to reform the management of Waqf properties in India. Notable provisions include:
Representation on Waqf Boards: Mandating the appointment of at least two non-Muslim members to state Waqf boards to ensure diverse representation.
Government Official Oversight: Allowing a government official to determine whether a property qualifies as Waqf property, thereby streamlining the registration process.
Inclusion of Muslim Women: Ensuring representation of Muslim women in central and state Waqf bodies to promote gender inclusivity.
Background and Legislative Process
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, was initially introduced to reform the governance of Waqf properties. In August 2024, the bill was referred to the JPC for detailed scrutiny.
The committee, led by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, examined the bill and proposed 14 amendments, all of which were accepted by the committee.
The revised bill was formally adopted by the committee on January 29, 2025.
Opposition and Controversies
The bill has faced opposition from certain quarters. Opposition members expressed concerns alleging that sections of their dissent notes had been removed from the final report.
The government has denied these allegations, stating that the JPC chairperson had the discretion to remove sections casting aspersions on the committee.
The bill aims to enhance the management and governance of Waqf properties across the country.
