WAQF BOARD BILL :
POLITY
NEWS : New
Bill removes powers of Waqf Board; non-Muslims and women on board
WHAT’S IN THE NEWS ?
The Indian Parliament is poised to introduce
the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aimed at amending the Waqf Act, 1995. This
legislation is designed to increase accountability and transparency within Waqf
boards. A key aspect of the proposed amendments is the removal of provisions
that currently grant Waqf Boards the unchecked authority to declare any
property as Waqf without adequate oversight. These changes are intended to
ensure more rigorous checks and balances in the management and declaration of
Waqf properties.
Definition: A Waqf
is a property dedicated in the name of God for religious and charitable
purposes, recognized under Muslim law.
Legal
Status: Once designated as a Waqf, the property becomes non-transferable and is
held perpetually as a charitable act toward God.
Types: Waqfs
can be public (for charitable purposes) or private (benefiting the creator's
descendants).
Creation: Must be
created by a person of sound mind who holds valid ownership. The creator, known
as the Waqif, can be a non-Muslim as long as they believe in Islamic
principles.
Governance:
- Waqf Act 1995:
Regulates Waqfs in India. It mandates the registration of all Waqfs and
outlines the roles of the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards.
- Waqf Board: A legal entity in each
state that administers Waqf properties, led by a chairperson with members
including state nominees, Muslim legislators, and Islamic scholars.
- Mutawali: The manager or supervisor
of a Waqf.
Central
Waqf Council (CWC): Established in 1964 to oversee and advise State
Waqf Boards.
Amendment
Proposal: A bill to amend 44 sections of the Waqf Act of 1995 is likely to be
tabled, including provisions for non-Muslim and Muslim women representation in
Waqf bodies.
Source : https://www.nextias.com/ca/headlines-of-the-day/08-08-2024/headlines-of-the-day-08-08-2024