BJP and Allies Defend Waqf Amendment Bill, Highlight Progressive Intent

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies in the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) defended the Waqf (Amendment) Bill as a progressive legislation. Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju tabled the bill in the Rajya Sabha for passage. The Lok Sabha passed the bill with a 288-232 vote after a marathon debate. Several BJP allies supported the bill. Rijiju said the bill aims to usher in transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the management of Waqf properties. He asserted that only a Muslim can become a Waqif and that non-Muslims cannot be members of the Central Waqf Council. He also criticized the previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government for transferring prime properties in the national capital to the Waqf Board while the case was sub judice.

The bill, known as UMEED (Unified Waqf Management Empowerment Efficiency and Development), includes recommendations for strengthening the board made by three committees. The bill marks a fresh start and is based on recommendations from various committees set up by previous governments. While the opposition accused the government of impinging on minority rights, Rijiju and BJP President JP Nadda defended the bill's aims and transparency. Nadda said the bill removes the concept of Waqf by user and allows only declarations through endowment, with donors required to be practicing Muslims.

Former Union Minister Kapil Sibal raised concerns about regulating Waqf and questioned the government's motives. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman pointed out the system in place for Hindu religious trusts in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. JD(U) Working President Sanjay Jha termed the bill progressive and highlighted his party's engagement with religious and social organizations to address concerns.