New Waqf Law Aims to Prevent Misuse and Promote Community Development

Union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia stated that the newly enacted Waqf law is designed to prevent the misuse of properties and ensure that Waqf land is utilised for community development. The Waqf Amendment Bill, after extensive debates, was passed by the Lok Sabha on Thursday and the Rajya Sabha on Friday. President Droupadi Murmu granted her approval to the Bill on Saturday.

The Act's primary goal is to enhance the management of Waqf properties, which are assets permanently donated by Muslims for religious or charitable purposes. It includes measures to protect heritage sites and promote social welfare. Additionally, it aims to improve governance by increasing transparency in property management, facilitating better coordination between Waqf boards and local authorities, and safeguarding stakeholders' rights.

Waqf Law's Impact on Property Management

Scindia criticised the opposition, accusing them of wanting to monopolise and misuse Waqf Board affairs. He claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with the BJP and government, have exposed these intentions. According to Scindia, the new law will ensure that Waqf land benefits people’s development, reflecting the ideology of society, including the Muslim community.

The minister emphasised that the Waqf bill has dismantled the monopoly held by those with vested interests who resisted using properties for the Muslim community's welfare. Now, these properties will be freely used for community development and public welfare.

Political Reactions and Development Initiatives

When questioned about the Congress Working Committee meeting and All India Congress Committee session in Gujarat, Scindia remarked that Congress focuses solely on its sessions. He asserted that poll strategies and atmospheres are shaped by people's actions, crediting Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister for creating this environment through their work. However, he acknowledged that every party has a democratic right to hold its sessions.

Earlier, Scindia participated in inaugurating a railway overbridge and two hostels in Gwalior city via video link. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and state Assembly Speaker Narendra Singh Tomar also attended. Scindia mentioned that with the Western Bypass's approval in Gwalior at an estimated cost of Rs 1,300 crore, the city's development will receive a significant boost.

The new Waqf law represents a significant shift towards ensuring transparency and accountability in managing Waqf properties. By focusing on community development and safeguarding heritage sites, it aims to benefit society at large while promoting social welfare.