The introduction of the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 has sparked a nationwide movement within the Muslim community.
It’s crucial that this movement remains authentic and isn’t co-opted by any external forces.
While the increased engagement in the democratic process is encouraging, there is a need for vigilance as some elements with vested interests are influencing the discourse negatively.
The government’s proposal of the Bill has elicited strong reactions, which quite understandably many are attributing to political motivations.
Opposition leaders are actively advocating for the Muslim community, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on the floor of the house has made a statement that the intention of introducing the Bill is in the interest of the Muslim community.
In this backdrop it is important to approach this situation with a degree of trust and open dialogue. The movement advocating for necessary amendments has, for the most part, been constructive.
However, there are attempts to make the Bill as a communal issue, which is counterproductive.
Some concerning posts are emerging on social media, where certain anti-social elements are attempting to instill fear and create panic among the community.
Claims are being made that the Bill would lead to the government taking control of numerous mosques and graveyards.
Calls to oppose the Bill by changing WhatsApp display pictures such as ‘I reject Waqf Bill’ and social media statuses are becoming prevalent.
Such actions may not serve the best interests of the community and could instead foster a negative perception.
The law already exists since 1913/1923 in the British era and it has been codified in 1954, 1995, and 2013. Primarily the system functions under Central Waqf Council, Waqf Boards in respective states and the Waqf Tribunals.
Syed Akhter Mahmood, former IRS who drafted the 2013 amendment bill believes that there are certain provisions in 2024 Bill which should not be there. But there is also a need to improve the already existing provisions such as maintenance of Waqf property websites.
He says there are many recommendations from the 2013 Bill which have not been implemented and if considered by the JPC could make the implementation easy. There is a need for affirmative action and constructive dialogue.
Efforts to downplay the necessity of the Waqf reforms and present them as an attack on Muslims needs proper application of mind.
The debate over the Bill in Parliament highlighted differences between BJP and Opposition members, resulting in a significant discussion on various provisions.
Despite reassurances from Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, dissent persisted.
To address these concerns, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla established a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) led by MP Jagadambika Pal to review the Bill and solicit public input. MP Jagadambika Pal is a seasoned leader who has vast political experience.
This initiative has garnered substantial feedback from the Muslim community, reflecting a largely positive response. Notable leaders, including Najeeb Jung, Lt. Gen Zameeruddin Shah, and Zafar Mahmood, have contributed their views to the Committee, showcasing constructive engagement.
Additionally, videos encouraging community members to participate by submitting their suggestions to the JPC have been widely circulated and have generally fostered a positive democratic engagement. Despite this, misinformation about the Bill continues to proliferate on social media.
There are definitely many points which need the Government’s reconsideration but outright rejection of the bill without even understanding it properly would be highly inappropriate.
The encouraging news is that many Muslims have individually submitted their suggestions via email to the Committee. However, figures like Zakir Naik have used their platforms to incite strong opposition against the Bill, which should be approached with high caution.
It is essential that the engagement with the government remains direct and free from the influence of vested interests.
To get more clarity the fundamental question the Muslim community must address is whether the current Waqf management system is functioning effectively.
Historically, the system has been plagued by corruption and mismanagement, with significant misuse of Waqf properties.
There are more than 50 Waqf properties which have issues of conflict with the Archeological Survey of India. While the management is being handled by the Waqf Boards, the maintenance and protection has been ASI’s responsibility since 1914.
Understandably the priority of the Waqf Boards had been to generate income for social work from the properties by allowing commercial activities, ASI’s mandate has been the restoration and protection of these properties from any further damage.
These conflicts have remained unresolved since decades. While the Waqf initiated commercial interests are important to take care of the needy, we should not also ignore the fact that these monuments and properties also have a heritage value.
There is a need to take a rational view in consultation with the governments or the courts of law wherever the parties have gone into litigation. Pendency of court cases has been another major issue.
Waqf remains the third-largest landowner in India, after Defence and Railways. If managed properly, this resource could have greatly benefited the community.
Past experiences, such as those with the Shah Bano and Ram Janmabhoomi cases, illustrate the pitfalls of being swayed by rhetoric.
As participants in a democracy, it’s crucial to navigate the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 with a clear, rational approach. And iron out the differences.
The movement surrounding it should be directed positively to avoid it becoming another missed opportunity.
Advocate for your rights through civil means, but ensure that the movement is not manipulated by external agendas.