Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju strongly defended the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha, countering allegations from the Opposition and addressing concerns regarding Waqf governance. Amidst heated debates and protests, he accused the Opposition of misleading the public and obstructing necessary reforms in Waqf administration.
The Chit Chat in Lok Sabha
“If we had not introduced this bill, even the Parliament building and airports would have been claimed as Waqf properties,” said Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju while addressing the opposition in the Lok Sabha.
Accusing the opposition of misrepresenting facts, he stated, “You have attempted to mislead people on issues unrelated to the Waqf Bill.” He also emphasized that recommendations from the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) had been taken into account, saying, “We have accepted several valuable suggestions, including minor amendments.”
Highlighting the benefits of the bill, Rijiju explained that centralizing data and streamlining the registration process would help reduce administrative inefficiencies and delays. He further clarified that state governments would oversee the auditing process and have the authority to appoint Waqf Board members, as land falls under the jurisdiction of state governments.
Discussing the broader impact of the bill, Rijiju pointed out that the restructured Waqf management system would bring significant reforms. “India ranks third globally in terms of Waqf properties, following Indian Railways and the Indian Army,” he said.
He reiterated that the government had no intention of interfering in religious institutions but needed to address the overriding authority that the UPA government had previously granted to Waqf laws over other legal frameworks. These amendments, he argued, were necessary to ensure a balanced approach.
Furthermore, he assured that tribal communities’ lands and rights would remain safeguarded under Schedule 5 and Schedule 6 of the Constitution, preventing Waqf claims over these areas. According to an official release from the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Waqf Boards currently manage 8.7 lakh properties spanning 9.4 lakh acres across India, with an estimated worth of ₹1.2 lakh crore.
Opposition’s Objections and Rijiju’s Response
Responding to criticism, Rijiju remarked, “You tried to mislead people on issues which are not part of the Waqf Bill.” He accused the UPA government of transferring numerous government properties to the Waqf Board and claimed that, had the current bill not been introduced, even parliamentary buildings could have been appropriated under Waqf claims.
Rijiju pointed out that an amendment made during the UPA government’s tenure placed Waqf law above all other existing laws in India. Citing a specific instance, he stated that 134 properties were denotified and handed over to the Waqf Board under the previous government’s policies.
Inclusive and Secular Reforms in Waqf Governance
The Minister emphasized the government’s efforts to ensure that the Waqf Board is more inclusive and representative. He clarified that only individuals who have practiced Islam for at least five years can create Waqf properties. However, the restructured Waqf Boards will now include a broader representation, incorporating Shia, Sunni, Bohra, Aghakhani, and backward-class Muslim communities. Additionally, provisions have been made to include women and non-Muslim experts in Waqf administration.
Composition of the Central Waqf Council
Providing details on the reformed structure of the Central Waqf Council, Rijiju explained:
- The council will consist of 22 members in total.
- A maximum of four non-Muslims can be part of the council.
- There will be three Members of Parliament from any religious background.
- The council will include ten members from the Muslim community.
- Two former judges will be part of the council.
- One advocate each from the Supreme Court and High Court, with national standing, will be included.
- Four experts from various fields will be appointed.
- The council will also feature an additional secretary and a joint secretary.
- At least two women members will be mandatory.
Ensuring Secular and Transparent Waqf Management
Rijiju underscored that while the Waqf Board oversees Waqf properties, it does not interfere in their ownership. He reiterated the government’s commitment to making the Waqf system more secular and transparent. As an example, he pointed out that although he is not a Muslim, his role as the Minority Affairs Minister makes him the chairman of the Waqf Council. In addition, the council will include at least four non-Muslim members, with two women compulsorily represented.
The Minister’s speech aimed to assure the Parliament that the bill is designed to create an inclusive and well-regulated Waqf system, addressing governance gaps while ensuring fair representation and accountability.