Asaduddin Owaisi has formally opposed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, arguing that the House lacks the authority to make such amendments. In his statement, Owaisi emphasized the significance of Waqf management as an essential religious practice for Muslims.
He questioned, “If someone comes and says they have not practiced Islam for five years, who will decide, sir?” Owaisi further highlighted the implications for new converts, asking if they need to wait five years before they can dedicate their property to Waqf. He argued that this requirement could violate the right to freedom of religion.
#WATCH | On Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi says, “This bill violates the principles of Articles 14, 15 and 25 of the Constitution. This bill is both discriminatory and arbitrary…By bringing this bill, you (the Central govt) are doing the work of… pic.twitter.com/kehmLjV3Gv
— ANI (@ANI) August 8, 2024
Owaisi criticized the bill for allowing non-Muslims to become members of the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards, yet restricting their ability to dedicate Waqf properties. He claimed that by removing Waqf properties, the government aims to take control of important religious sites like Dargahs and Masjids.
He also addressed the government’s claim of empowering women, sarcastically questioning if Bilkis Bano and Zakhiya Zafri would be appointed as members. Owaisi concluded, “I want to say that this bill is meant to divide the country, not unite it. You are enemies of Muslims, and this bill is proof of that.”
Also Read: Waqf Amendment Bill: Akhilesh And Amit Shah Face Off On The Parliament
