Religious Groups Unite Against Waqf Bill: Autonomy and Rights in Focus
Religious Group Analyzes Waqf Amendment Bill: Implications for Minority Rights and Property Management
The Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulama (MMU) Jammu and Kashmir, a conglomerate of major religious bodies of the UT, on Thursday held a meeting to discuss the implications and possibilities regarding the Waqf Amendment Bill-2024. The participants also spoke about the concerns and apprehensions of the Muslim community in this regard.
A statement said they deliberated on issues such as inter-sectarian and intra-Muslim unity, the various challenges and difficulties faced by the Kashmiri society, the widespread use and abuse of drugs, the youth’s growing distance from Islamic teachings, the continued house arrest of Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Muhammad Umar Farooq and other issues.
The statement further read that a comprehensive resolution was passed unanimously. “This session strongly reacts against the Government of India’s attempts to legalise the Waqf Amendment Bill-2024, firmly opposing and rejecting it in its entirety,” it said.
It said this session makes it clear to the Government of India that the “true owner of all Waqf properties, lands and estates is Allah and the concept of Waqf is inherently tied to the Islamic system of beliefs”. “Any governmental interference undermines the fundamental concept of Waqf, and such efforts are, therefore, unacceptable to Muslims,” it said.
It said this session also emphasises that Waqf properties fall under divine law and are part of Muslim Personal Law. “Therefore, any interference or amendments made by the government through various acts and amendments are unacceptable to Muslims,” the resolution said.
The statement said Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulama Jammu & Kashmir has already sent a detailed and reasoned letter to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), expressing its concerns and labeling the bill as anti-Muslim. “The council has also clarified that, if necessary, it is willing to present its position and viewpoint directly to the JPC through a meeting,” it said.
“Therefore, this session demands from the Central Government and the JPC to immediately address the concerns of the Muslim community and the only solution to this is the withdrawal of the proposed bill,” the statement added.
The body also condemned the continued house arrest of the MMU leader Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir during the sacred month of Rabi al-Awwal, calling for his immediate release so that he may fulfil his duties toward the public.
Key Concerns Raised
During the meeting, several key concerns were highlighted. The primary issue revolves around the centralization of power, which would allow the central government to dissolve state Waqf boards and appoint administrators at its discretion1. This move is seen as a direct threat to the autonomy of Waqf boards, which have traditionally operated under a decentralized framework.
Impact on Minority Rights
The MMU and AIMPLB expressed deep concerns about the potential erosion of minority rights. The bill’s provisions, which include stricter controls on the usage and management of Waqf properties, are viewed as a means to undermine the independence of these boards and increase government interference in religious affairs. This centralization is perceived as a deliberate attempt to diminish the autonomy of Muslim communities in managing their own religious and cultural affairs.
Changes to Waqf Property Management
One of the most contentious aspects of the bill is the proposed repeal of Section 40, which currently gives Waqf boards the authority to determine if a property is a Waqf asset. Instead, this power would be transferred to the District Collector, a move that critics argue could lead to increased bureaucratic control and potential misuse of power.
Public and Institutional Response
The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) examining the bill has received over 8 lakh petitions from the public and various institutions, reflecting the widespread concern and opposition to the proposed changes. The MMU and AIMPLB have called for the immediate withdrawal of the bill, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and consultative approach to any amendments affecting Waqf properties.
Broader Implications
The implications of the Waqf Amendment Bill extend beyond administrative changes. By placing Waqf properties under tighter government control, the bill could pave the way for the expropriation and redistribution of assets in a manner that aligns with the political and economic interests of those in power1. This potential shift in control has raised alarms about the future of Waqf properties and their role in supporting the welfare of Muslim communities.
Conclusion
The MMU and AIMPLB’s meeting underscores the critical need for a balanced and fair approach to the management of Waqf properties. As the debate over the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 continues, it is essential to consider the voices and concerns of all stakeholders to ensure that any changes made do not compromise the rights and autonomy of minority communities.
