New Delhi: Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday introduced the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 in the Lok Sabha, sparking opposition protests. The bill seeks to amend the Waqf Act of 1995, which governs the administration of waqf properties in India.
Addressing concerns over the bill, Rijiju clarified that it would not impact mosque management or interfere in religious affairs. “Changes made in Waqf law by the UPA government gave it overriding effect over other statutes, hence new amendments were required,” he stated.
The opposition, however, raised objections, questioning the necessity and timing of the amendments. Critics argue that the government is trying to assert greater control over waqf properties, while the ruling BJP-led government maintains that the changes are intended to bring greater transparency and legal clarity.
