Lok Sabha passes Waqf Bill after a long debate, Pg 1

Waqf (Amendment) Bill Passed

• Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill after a marathon debate, with 288 MPs voting in favour.

• Home Minister Amit Shah assured the Muslim community that the bill will not interfere with religious practices.

Bill Provisions

• Clarifies that:

  • Only a Muslim can be a waqif (donor).

  • Only a mutawalli (manager) can be included in Waqf Board/Council.

  • Donations must be used only for intended purposes.

Political Debate

• Oppositions amendments were negated by division of votes.

• Home Minister accused Opposition of fear-mongering for vote bank politics.

• Emphasized that Waqf is a religious endowment, not a political entity.

Bill Objective

• Part of the UMEED Bill aims at Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development.

Analysis & Way Forward

• The bill seeks to improve transparency and governance in Waqf properties.

• Continued consultation with stakeholders and clarity in legal interpretation is vital to prevent politicization.

Mains Mock Question:

"What are the key challenges in managing Waqf properties in India? Critically examine the provisions of the recent Waqf (Amendment) Bill in this regard."