Muslim Forum Sikar Demands Withdrawal of Controversial Waqf Amendment Bill

Sikar, Sep 7: A delegation from the Muslim Forum, Sikar, has submitted a memorandum to the District Collector, addressed to the President of India, voicing strong opposition to the proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill No. 100/2024.

The memorandum underscores several critical points:

India’s Secular Identity: The delegation emphasized that India’s secular constitution upholds the rights of all communities, including Muslims, specifically regarding Waqf properties.

Purpose of Existing Waqf Law: The current Waqf Act, enacted in 1995 after extensive deliberation, is designed to safeguard Muslim Waqf properties.

Concerns Over the Amendment Bill: The proposed amendment is viewed as an encroachment on the constitutional and personal law rights of Muslims. The delegation argues that the bill appears to be a governmental attempt to control and seize Waqf properties, labeling it as flawed and unconstitutional.

Call for Withdrawal: The memorandum demands the immediate retraction of the Waqf Amendment Bill.

Recommendations for Waqf Property Protection:

1. Comprehensive Survey: Conduct a thorough survey of pre-partition Waqf properties to identify those not yet documented in the Waqf gazette.
2. Standard Rent: Establish standard rent rates for Waqf properties and create special courts to handle rent disputes efficiently.
3. Encroachment Removal: Form specialized teams to address and remove encroachments on Waqf properties.
4. Legal Measures: Implement strict legal actions against individuals involved in illegal dealings concerning Waqf properties.
5. Utilization for Welfare: Ensure Waqf properties are utilized for community welfare, including establishing schools, hospitals, and orphanages.
6. Staff Remuneration: Standardize the salaries of Imams, muezzins, and other Waqf staff.
7. Board Regulations: Enforce stricter eligibility criteria for Waqf Board members.
8. Inclusive Representation: Guarantee representation from all Muslim sects on Waqf Boards.

The Muslim Forum, Sikar, advocates for the government’s withdrawal of the Waqf Amendment Bill and emphasizes the importance of protecting and preserving Waqf properties for the Muslim community’s benefit.

The memorandum was delivered by prominent figures, including Khurshid Hussain, Amiruddin Tagla, and Saeed Ahmed Qureshi, among other leading citizens.