Lucknow: Dr. Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas, spokesperson of All India Muslim Personal Law Board, emphasized the significance of Waqf (endowment) in Islam during a public address organized by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Uttar Pradesh East, in collaboration with the Muslim Welfare Society. Speaking at the event held at Jama Masjid Munshi Piya, he called on secular political parties to openly oppose the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 in Parliament.
Dr. Ilyas explained the historical importance of Waqf in Islamic tradition, citing how Prophet Muhammad ﷺ purchased land for the Prophet’s Mosque and dedicated it as Waqf for public welfare. He noted that Waqf properties serve as a form of sadaqah jariyah (ongoing charity), benefiting communities even after the donor’s death. However, he expressed concern over the misconceptions spread by the media, claiming that such misinformation portrays Waqf as merely a tool used by kings to seize lands.
Addressing the audience, Dr. Ilyas stressed the need for legal and democratic protests to prevent the passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill, which, if passed, could lead to the fragmentation of Waqf properties and complete government control. He highlighted problematic amendments, including the transfer of dispute resolution powers to collectors, who often act under government influence. Also, the bill removes the stipulation that a Waqf CEO must be Muslim, allowing non-Muslims to potentially hold the position. Another concerning change is the restriction that only practicing Muslims from the past five years can now dedicate properties as Waqf.
Dr. Ilyas urged political parties that claim to support Muslims to actively oppose the bill in Parliament. He warned that if the bill is passed, Muslims, much like farmers during their protests, must organize mass movements within the legal framework to resist the law.
The event, which began with a Quranic lesson by Maulana Amjad Ali Nadvi, was conducted under the guidance of Dr. Muhammad Saeed Falahi, head of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind’s Lucknow zone. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Muslim Welfare Society’s Vice President, Muhammad Sabir Khan, with a large turnout of men and women in attendance.
