Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav has strongly opposed the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, alleging that the ruling party is introducing it to benefit industrialists rather than safeguarding the interests of the Muslim community. She criticized the government for diverting attention from real issues and failing to protect the rights of common people.
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale, however, defended the bill, stating that it aims to decentralize Waqf property holdings, which are currently controlled by a few individuals, and ensure that the benefits reach the wider Muslim community.
The proposed amendments include provisions for non-Muslim members in Waqf boards and grant the government authority to determine ownership of disputed Waqf properties. Critics argue that these changes could weaken Muslim property rights and allow greater government interference in Waqf management. The bill has sparked significant opposition, with concerns that it is an attempt to control Muslim assets under the guise of reforms.
