What are the key components of the Waqf amendment bill ? Here's what you need to know

What is the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024?

The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, seeks to replace and consolidate the Waqf Act of 1995, which governs the management of Waqf properties in India. The Bill has been contentious, as those who support it believe that the Bill will enable more effective management of Waqf properties, while those who oppose it believe that it intrudes on Muslim community rights.

Key Changes Proposed in the Bill

Some of the most important provisions of the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, are:

1. Abolishment of the 'Waqf by User' Clause: The Bill seeks to abolish the "waqf by user" clause, wherein land is purported to be declared Waqf on the basis of long-standing use.
2. Eligibility Criteria to Establish Waqf: The Bill strengthens the eligibility criteria to establish a Waqf so that the person should have followed Islam for at least five years to establish a Waqf.
3. Dispute Settlement of Waqf Land Ownership: The Bill tries to alter the method of settlement of disputes relating to Waqf land ownership, with the cases to be adjudicated by the district collector rather than the Waqf Tribunal.
4. Registration of Waqf Properties and Claims of Ownership: The Bill makes all Waqf properties registered in six months from the enactment date of the law, from which date claims of ownership will not be entertained.
5. Waqf Tribunal Composition Amendments: The Bill further proposes amendments in the composition of the Waqf Tribunal with the ambit of a non-Muslim CEO and obligatory inclusion of non-Muslim members.

Controversy over the Bill

The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, was opposed by all, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) and the Congress-led INDIA coalition included. It is thought by the people that the Bill is discriminatory towards the Muslim community and robs them of their rights.