JPC Report on Waqf (Amendment) Bill

On 13th February 2024, the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, was tabled in Rajya Sabha.

Key Points

JPC Report & Opposition’s Objection: The JPC, comprising both Opposition and BJP MPs, submitted its report to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on January 30, with a 15-11 majority vote.
Purpose of the Bill: The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aims to modernize and streamline Waqf property management, promoting transparency and accountability.
Key Amendments:
- Only lawful owners can create Waqf to prevent property disputes.
- Government land cannot be designated as Waqf.
- Waqf land disputes will be handled by District Collectors instead of Waqf Tribunals.
- ‘Waqf by Use’ abolished—Waqf properties now require an official Waqfnama.
- State Waqf Boards must include at least two non-Muslim members, and non-Muslims can be appointed as CEOs.
Supporters’ View: The bill will curb encroachments, enhance governance, and prevent misuse of Waqf properties.
Critics’ View: The bill erodes Waqf institutions’ autonomy, centralizes control, and marginalizes the Muslim community.