A recent survey by Local Circles has unveiled overwhelming public support for the proposed amendment to the Waqf Act in India. The survey, conducted across 388 districts and involving over 47,000 respondents, found that an impressive 90% of citizens are in favor of the bill.
This strong backing for the amendment stems from the bill’s focus on greater transparency and accountability within Waqf boards. The survey revealed that 96% of respondents want the Waqf boards to mandatorily register their properties with district collectors and have a say in how these properties are used. This reflects a widespread desire for increased oversight and participation in the management of Waqf properties.
The survey also highlights strong public support for streamlining the resolution of property disputes. A significant 93% of respondents favor the amendment’s proposal to resolve such disputes through the regular court system, instead of the existing Waqf tribunals. This indicates a preference for a more transparent and efficient mechanism for resolving property-related issues.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, introduced by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju in the last session of Parliament, has sparked debate and discussion. It proposes several key changes to the existing Waqf Act, including ensuring representation for Muslim women and non-Muslims in Waqf bodies. The bill also aims to address issues related to the creation and ownership of Waqf properties, granting greater authority to district collectors in resolving disputes.
The bill has faced opposition from certain political parties, leading to its referral to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for further examination. The committee, chaired by BJP Lok Sabha Member of Parliament Jagdambika Pal, has already held two meetings, witnessing heated discussions between opposition members and BJP representatives.
Despite these debates, the overwhelming public support for the bill, as revealed by the Local Circles survey, underscores the need for comprehensive reform and modernization of the Waqf Act. The proposed amendments aim to address long-standing concerns related to transparency, accountability, and representation, creating a more inclusive and efficient system for managing Waqf properties in India.
