Muslim Leaders Support Waqf Bill, Criticize Detractors
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Synopsis
On April 3, 2023, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha, receiving strong support from Muslim leaders who labeled critics as 'Waqf encroachers.' They emphasized the Bill's significance in fighting corruption and improving conditions for underprivileged Muslims.
Key Takeaways
- Waqf (Amendment) Bill passed in Lok Sabha.
- Critics labeled as 'Waqf encroachers.'
- Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi supports the Bill.
- Concerns over misuse of Waqf properties.
- Uttarakhand Waqf Board Chairman defends the legislation.
New Delhi, April 3 (NationPress) Following the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha, numerous Muslim leaders expressed their backing for the legislation, branding its critics as "Waqf encroachers."
The Bill, which sparked significant discussion on Wednesday, endured a lengthy debate lasting nearly 12 hours before being approved in the early hours of Thursday. The Lok Sabha endorsed it with a decisive majority of 288 votes against 232.
Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi, the National President of the All India Muslim Jamaat, conveyed his appreciation to the parliamentarians supporting the Bill, emphasizing that it marks a vital step towards eradicating corruption within the Waqf system.
"The Waqf Amendment Bill has been passed in Parliament. I express my gratitude to all the parliamentarians who supported this Bill. I also commend the Government of India for taking a significant initiative to eliminate wrongdoing," he stated.
Razvi pointed out the alleged exploitation of Waqf properties, accusing board officials of partnering with land mafias for personal profit.
"Previously, those at the helm of the Board would collaborate with land 'mafias' and illegally sell properties to them. This was contrary to the Board's primary objective, which was to assist those in need, including poor Muslims and widows. Instead, the proceeds ended up in the hands of individuals illegally selling the properties," he remarked.
He also expressed optimism that the Bill would instigate positive changes in the lives of underprivileged Muslims.
Uttarakhand Waqf Board Chairman Shadab Shams also voiced strong support for the Bill, claiming that its critics are not "true Muslims" but political opportunists. He labeled AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi as a "Waqf encroacher."
"Those opposing the Waqf Amendment Act are not genuine Muslims; they are political Muslims and actual encroachers of Waqf. From top to bottom, members of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), various Muslim organizations, Jamiat, or even those pretending to be sympathizers like (AIMIM chief) Asaduddin Owaisi; they are all Waqf encroachers," Shams accused.
He further demanded transparency from Owaisi regarding alleged land transactions, calling for disclosure of "how he acquired several Waqf properties and the multiple cases against his brothers for land grabbing."
With the Waqf debate still ongoing, the legislation is now poised to be presented in the Rajya Sabha.
