The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, introduced in the Indian Parliament, has been referred to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further scrutiny. This bill aims to amend the Waqf Act, 1995, which governs the administration of waqf properties in India. The proposed amendments are designed to address issues related to the management and regulation of waqf properties and to ensure their effective utilization for charitable purposes. Here’s a detailed look at the bill’s proposed changes and their implications.
Key Proposals of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024
- Enhanced Transparency and Accountability: The bill proposes the introduction of a mandatory audit of waqf properties every five years. This move is intended to increase transparency and ensure that the income generated from these properties is used for their intended charitable purposes. Additionally, the bill calls for the establishment of a National Waqf Properties Development Corporation to oversee the development and maintenance of these properties.
- Streamlining Property Management: One of the significant changes proposed is the streamlining of the management of waqf properties. The bill suggests the creation of a Central Waqf Advisory Board to offer guidance on the administration of waqf properties and resolve disputes. This board would also assist in the digitization of records, making it easier to track and manage waqf assets.
- Strengthening Legal Provisions: The bill includes provisions to strengthen the legal framework surrounding waqf properties. It aims to increase penalties for the misuse of waqf assets and to simplify the process for legal action against individuals or entities found to be in violation of waqf regulations. These measures are designed to deter malpractices and ensure that waqf properties are managed in accordance with their intended purposes.
- Expanding the Scope of Waqf Properties: Another notable amendment is the expansion of the definition of waqf properties to include properties that are not currently under the purview of the Waqf Act. This change is intended to encompass a broader range of assets, ensuring that all waqf properties are regulated and managed effectively.
- Appointment of Professional Managers: The bill proposes allowing the appointment of professional managers to oversee the administration of waqf properties. This move aims to bring in expertise and efficiency in managing these assets, which can be particularly beneficial for large and complex waqf estates.
Government’s Justification for the Amendments
The government has defended the proposed changes, arguing that they are essential for the effective management and utilization of waqf properties. According to officials, the amendments will address long-standing issues related to the mismanagement and underutilization of these assets. The government believes that the proposed measures will enhance transparency, improve accountability, and ensure that waqf properties are used to benefit the intended beneficiaries.
Supporters of the bill argue that the amendments will modernize the management of waqf properties and bring them in line with contemporary administrative practices. They highlight that the proposed changes will help in better utilization of waqf assets, which are often underused or mismanaged due to outdated regulations and lack of effective oversight.
Criticisms and Concerns
Despite the government’s favorable stance, the bill has faced criticism from various quarters. Some critics argue that the amendments might lead to increased bureaucratic control over waqf properties, potentially undermining the autonomy of local waqf boards. There are also concerns about the feasibility of implementing the proposed measures, particularly the digitization of records and the appointment of professional managers.
The Joint Parliamentary Committee is expected to thoroughly examine these concerns and make recommendations to ensure that the bill addresses the issues effectively without compromising the interests of stakeholders.
Conclusion
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 represents a significant step towards improving the management and regulation of waqf properties in India. By enhancing transparency, streamlining administration, and strengthening legal provisions, the bill aims to ensure that waqf assets are used for their intended charitable purposes. As the bill undergoes scrutiny by the Joint Parliamentary Committee, it will be crucial to address the concerns raised and refine the proposals to achieve a balanced and effective regulatory framework.
