The All India Sufi Sajjadanshin Council (AISSC) has expressed its support for the central government’s proposed amendments to the Waqf Board Act. This support comes with a call for broad cooperation from various stakeholders to ensure the amendments are successfully implemented.
During a press conference held in Delhi, Syed Naseruddin Chishty, Chairman of the AISSC, highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to seek reforms in the Waqf Act. He noted that the council has consistently submitted memorandums to the Government of India advocating for changes to the Waqf Act.
The recent news of proposed amendments, as reported through media channels, was met with approval from the AISSC. Chishty emphasised the importance of defining and protecting the role of dargahs, the Islamic shrines, within the new framework.
Chishty urged all political parties to refrain from turning the issue into a political battleground. He called on those who oppose the amendments to participate in discussions and work alongside the government to ensure the bill’s passage.
Transparency within the Waqf Boards, he pointed out, is crucial, particularly in light of various corruption issues that have plagued Waqf boards across different states.
The AISSC welcomed the government’s initiative to amend the Waqf Act. Chishty revealed that the council had communicated with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and had met with him to discuss the matter.
The council is optimistic that the forthcoming bill will benefit minorities and Muslims. Chishty reassured the public that the aim is to protect everyone’s rights and eradicate corruption within the Waqf boards.
On August 5, Kiren Rijiju, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, met with a delegation from the AISSC. This delegation included prominent Sajjadanashins from various dargahs across India.
Rijiju described the meeting as productive and forward-looking, appreciating the council’s praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts towards the welfare of minorities. The delegation also expressed its commitment to the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Government sources have indicated that the Waqf amendment bill is expected to be introduced following the passage of the Finance Bill, which is anticipated to occur this week. The drafting of the amendments involved consultations with Muslim intellectuals and organisations to ensure that the reforms are comprehensive and effective.
Among the significant proposed changes is the requirement for the mandatory registration of Waqf properties with the District Collector’s office. This measure aims to facilitate proper evaluation and oversight of these properties. Additionally, the amendments propose enhancing inclusivity by ensuring that women are represented on both the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf boards.
These reforms are expected to address longstanding issues within the management of Waqf properties and ensure that the governance of these assets is more transparent and accountable. The AISSC's support for the amendments reflects a broader desire for positive change and greater oversight in the administration of Waqf properties.
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