Urgent Reform: Smriti Irani Advocates Essential Changes to Waqf Act for Empowering Muslim Community

Senior BJP leader Smriti Irani has commended the introduction of the amended Waqf Bill, describing it as a crucial measure for the Muslim community, especially women. The bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, has ignited significant opposition from various parties. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasized that the amendments do not compromise religious freedom or violate constitutional provisions.

Irani, expressing her gratitude to the Indian government and Prime Minister Modi, hailed the bill as a historic move. The amended legislation updates the 1995 Waqf Act, renaming it the ‘Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act.’ Key changes include the elimination of the Waqf Board’s authority to determine Waqf property and the establishment of a centralized portal and database for Waqf registration.

The bill aims to broaden the composition of the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf boards, ensuring representation of Muslim women and non-Muslims. It also proposes the creation of separate boards for the Boharas and Aghakhanis.

Opposition parties, including Congress, DMK, NCP, Trinamool Congress, and AIMIM, have strongly opposed the bill, citing concerns over federalism and constitutional integrity. They have called for the bill’s withdrawal, with many suggesting it be reviewed by a standing committee.

Irani, who lost her Amethi Lok Sabha seat to Congress leader Kishori Lal Sharma this year, is speculated to potentially lead the BJP after JP Nadda joined the Modi 3.0 Cabinet.

Original Story https://www.livemint.com/news/india/smriti-irani-says-amending-waqf-act-need-of-the-hour-for-muslim-community-i-would-like-to-11723118148025.html
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