WAQF BOARD BILL : POLITY

WAQF BOARD BILL :  POLITY

NEWS :  New Bill removes powers of Waqf Board; non-Muslims and women on board

 

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS ? 

The Indian Parliament is poised to introduce the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aimed at amending the Waqf Act, 1995. This legislation is designed to increase accountability and transparency within Waqf boards. A key aspect of the proposed amendments is the removal of provisions that currently grant Waqf Boards the unchecked authority to declare any property as Waqf without adequate oversight. These changes are intended to ensure more rigorous checks and balances in the management and declaration of Waqf properties.

 

Definition: A Waqf is a property dedicated in the name of God for religious and charitable purposes, recognized under Muslim law.

 

Legal Status: Once designated as a Waqf, the property becomes non-transferable and is held perpetually as a charitable act toward God.

 

Types: Waqfs can be public (for charitable purposes) or private (benefiting the creator's descendants).

 

Creation: Must be created by a person of sound mind who holds valid ownership. The creator, known as the Waqif, can be a non-Muslim as long as they believe in Islamic principles.

 

Governance:

  • Waqf Act 1995: Regulates Waqfs in India. It mandates the registration of all Waqfs and outlines the roles of the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards.
  • Waqf Board: A legal entity in each state that administers Waqf properties, led by a chairperson with members including state nominees, Muslim legislators, and Islamic scholars.
  • Mutawali: The manager or supervisor of a Waqf.

 

Central Waqf Council (CWC): Established in 1964 to oversee and advise State Waqf Boards.

 

Amendment Proposal: A bill to amend 44 sections of the Waqf Act of 1995 is likely to be tabled, including provisions for non-Muslim and Muslim women representation in Waqf bodies.

 

Source :  https://www.nextias.com/ca/headlines-of-the-day/08-08-2024/headlines-of-the-day-08-08-2024