Amit Shah defends Waqf Bill, accuses Opp of misinformation

Fierce debate in Lok Sabha over controversial legislation

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

Strongly defending the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Union Home Minister Amit Shah rejected the Opposition's charge that the government wants to interfere in the religious affairs of Muslims through the legislation and said its provisions are aimed at better management of the Waqf properties.

Intervening in the debate on the Bill in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, the home minister said the legislation would not be implemented with retrospective effect.

He accused the Opposition of trying to mislead the people and create fear among members of the Muslim community.

Extending his support to the Bill, Mr Shah said there are misconceptions among several members, either genuinely or politically over the Bill.

Mr Shah categorically said there is no provision for the appointment of non-Muslims in the processes related to religion in the Bill.

Stating that no non-Muslim would come into the Waqf, Mr Shah said there is no such provision to include any non-Muslim among those who manage the religious institutions.

The minister further said that they would only look after the administration of property donated by someone under the Waqf Law.