Waqf Bill Important Changes Explained; BJP TDP JDU | Muslim Property Law | आज का एक्सप्लेनर: वक्फ बिल पर नीतीश-नायडू ने अपनी बात मनवाई, क्या इससे मुसलमानों का फायदा; सरकार क्यों राजी हुई | Dainik Bhaskar

Key Changes in the Waqf Bill

The Waqf amendment bill, initially introduced on August 8, 2024, underwent substantial changes following its referral to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). The JPC, comprising members from the ruling NDA and opposition parties, incorporated 14 key amendments, largely based on suggestions from MPs Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar's parties.

Impact of Amendments

• 'Waqf by User' provision retained: This ensures properties historically used for religious purposes retain their Waqf status, even if lacking formal documentation. This addresses concerns about legal disputes for unregistered Waqf properties.
• State government officers as final authority: This replaces district collectors with state officials for final decision on disputed Waqf properties, thus reducing the potential for government control over Waqf boards.
• Flexible registration deadline: The 6-month registration deadline on a central portal is made flexible, allowing the Waqf Tribunal to extend deadlines based on justified reasons.
• Inclusion of Muslim law expert in tribunals: This ensures a deeper understanding of Islamic jurisprudence in dispute resolution.
• More non-Muslim members in Waqf boards: While maintaining at least two non-Muslim members, the amendment allows more non-Muslim members through ex-officio appointments.

Political Implications

The government's acceptance of these amendments is partly due to the need for political alliances to pass the bill. It aims to appease Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu's parties, which hold significant seats and influence in their respective states and consider significant Muslim vote banks. The amendments also reflect the political strategies of the involved parties, particularly in the context of upcoming state elections.