The New Waqf Law Is A Much-Needed Reform

The Bill doesn't target any religious group. Rather, it aligns Waqf governance with the principles applied to other religious trusts

- Syed Zafar Islam

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 is designed to usher in much-needed transparency, accountability and fairness in the governance of Waqf properties across India. I am aware of the fears being expressed by the Muslim community, including those regarding the erosion of institutional autonomy, potential encroachment on Waqf property rights, the dilution of Waqf Board authority and the perceived risk of excessive bureaucratic control. These sentiments deserve to be acknowledged with seriousness and sensitivity.

At the same time, it is important to recognise that several Opposition parties have sought to exploit these concerns through misinformation, fear-mongering and divisive rhetoric. While genuine concerns must be addressed thoughtfully, it is equally necessary to counter false narratives that mislead the public and derail important reforms.

The unchecked functioning of the Waqf Boards has, in the past, led to arbitrary land claims, causing anguish not only to members of other communities but to Muslims as well. It is this opaque system that the current legislation seeks to reform.

With Parliament passing the Bill, long-standing imbalances can be corrected and justice in matters related to land and property can be restored.

Unlike previous administrations that shied away from addressing this sensitive issue due to political expediency, the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken a courageous and necessary decision in the public interest.