Waqf Amendment Bill: Amit Shah Slams Opposition, Says Non Muslims Not to Interfere in Religious Affairs

Union Home Minister Amit Shah strongly criticized the Opposition while defending the Waqf Amendment Bill, stating that non-Muslim members will only monitor administrative compliance and ensure proper utilization of donations meant for religious and welfare purposes. Addressing concerns, he reassured the Muslim community that no non-Muslim will interfere in Waqf matters, as the bill has no such provision.

Crackdown on Misuse of Waqf Properties

Shah highlighted the issue of illegal leasing and sale of Waqf properties, stating that the Waqf Board and Waqf Council will take strict action against those involved in such activities. He pointed out that the declining income of Waqf properties, meant for minority welfare, is being misused, and the new amendments aim to curb corruption and ensure accountability.

“The Waqf Board and Council will catch those selling off Waqf properties illegally or leasing them for 100 years, reducing the income meant for minority development. The government is committed to stopping such exploitation,” Shah said.

Transparency and Legal Recourse Introduced

Shah also criticized the Congress-led 2013 amendment, which restricted grievances related to Waqf property from being taken to court. Calling it an act of vote-bank politics, he said the current government is rectifying this by allowing affected individuals to seek legal recourse.

“Where will those whose land has been taken go if they can’t approach the court? Congress did this for appeasement, and we are rejecting it. Now, balance sheets will be submitted, reports will be mandatory, and retired CAG officers will audit Waqf finances to ensure transparency,” Shah added.

Congress’ 2013 Move Under Scrutiny

Amit Shah further accused the Congress of misusing the Waqf Act for political gains, citing that in 2013, just before the general elections, the party handed over 123 VVIP properties in Lutyens’ Delhi to Waqf. He argued that had the Waqf Act not been amended in 2013, the current amendment bill would not have been necessary.

The Waqf Amendment Bill aims to address concerns of financial mismanagement, illegal property transfers, and lack of transparency, ensuring that Waqf properties are used for their intended purpose—religious and social development of the Muslim community.