President Murmu Gives Green Light to Waqf Amendment Bill, Transforming India’s Religious Philanthropy Landscape
President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, transforming it into law following its passage through both houses of Parliament amidst intense debate and political opposition. The new legislation aims to curb misuse, favoritism, and encroachment of Waqf properties, ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of these assets.
The ruling NDA government has strongly denied claims that the law is anti-Muslim, insisting that its primary objective is to protect the welfare of Muslim communities. The government asserts that the Act will particularly benefit Muslim women, ensuring their rights and interests are safeguarded. The BJP’s Ravi Shankar Prasad defended the legislation, emphasizing that it will introduce accountability within Waqf boards and guarantee that religious sites like mosques and graveyards remain unaffected.
However, the new law has sparked fierce opposition from various political parties and community organizations. The All-India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has launched nationwide protests, claiming that the law is discriminatory and infringes upon the fundamental rights of Muslims. AIMPLB’s efforts aim to counter what they term “misinformation” and promote peaceful activism. The organization’s protests are expected to continue in the coming weeks, with several local chapters and members actively participating in the campaign.
The Congress, AIMIM, and AAP have each filed petitions in the Supreme Court, challenging the legislation on constitutional grounds. The petitions argue that the law is discriminatory and violative of fundamental rights, particularly those related to religion and personal laws. The legal and political battle surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Act is likely to escalate in the coming weeks as the matter reaches the apex court.
The high-stakes battle has garnered significant attention and debate, with many questioning the true intentions behind the legislation. Critics argue that the law seeks to usurp the autonomy of Waqf boards, while proponents claim it is essential to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of Waqf assets. The outcome of this legal and political battle remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Waqf (Amendment) Act has become a contentious issue, sparking heated debates and protests across the country.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/national/story/president-droupadi-murmu-gives-assent-to-waqf-bill-becomes-law-1194664-2025-04-06?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-04-06 00:01:00
