Abdul Qadir | Team TrickyScribe: In a significant development concerning the Waqf Property management debate, the backward Muslim community has asserted its right to be involved in managing Waqf properties. These endowments, established to serve the underprivileged through welfare initiatives such as education, healthcare, and personal support, are a vital resource for charitable aid.
Purpose of Waqf Al Aulad: Preserving Heritage
Waqf properties serve not only as sources of community support but also help maintain family property through what is known as “Waqf Al Aulad.” In this form, while heirs have management rights, they cannot sell the property, ensuring it remains within the family and its original purpose intact.
Proposed Amendments in a Letter to JPC Chairman Challenged
Ali Anwar, a prominent leader of backward Muslims and a two-term Rajya Sabha member, has voiced opposition to certain amendments proposed in the Waqf Bill. In his letter to Jagdambika Pal, chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), Anwar criticizes provisions such as the increased authority given to District Collectors and the limited representation of backward and Dalit Muslims.
Call for Inclusive Representation in Waqf Management
In addition to demanding inclusion for backward and Dalit Muslims, Anwar emphasizes the need for women’s representation in Waqf management. He argues that the proposed digitization of Waqf properties may lead to increased complexities and legal disputes.
Scale of Waqf Properties in India: Over 4.9 Lakh Assets Valued at Rs 1.2 Lakh Crores
With 4,90,021 Waqf properties across India, estimated at Rs 1.2 lakh crores, Waqf Boards are among the country’s largest landholders, ranking after the Indian Army and Railways. This immense wealth highlights the need for responsible and community-centered management.
Fears of Minority Disempowerment in Waqf Property Management
The proposed bill could fundamentally alter the nature of Waqf property management by reducing minority participation. Anwar’s letter argues that this will deprive the Muslim community of rightful control over its religious and charitable assets.
Argument for Muslim-Led Waqf Property Management
Drawing parallels with Hindu religious endowments managed solely by Hindus, Anwar contends that Muslims should retain complete authority over Waqf properties. He cautions that under the guise of reforms, the very nature of Waqf properties was being altered to the disadvantage of the intended beneficiaries of the Waqf property.
Sachar Committee Findings: Better Waqf Management Could Transform Muslim Socioeconomic Conditions
Referencing the Sachar Committee report on Indian Muslims’ status, Anwar stresses that efficient Waqf property management could uplift the socioeconomic and educational standing of the Muslim community in India.
Proposed Amendments Are Worse Than the Problem, Asserts Ali Anwar
In his closing remarks, Anwar criticizes the proposed amendments, calling them a “remedy worse than the disease.” The backward Muslim community has requested a meeting with JPC members to present their concerns effectively.
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