Hyderabad MP and AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi criticised the Modi government on Sunday for its reported plans to amend the Waqf Board Act, alleging that the changes are intended to undermine the board's autonomy and increase government interference.
Owaisi, speaking at a conference, expressed strong disapproval of the potential amendments, claiming that the Modi administration is acting against parliamentary procedures and transparency. “Firstly, when Parliament is in session, the central government is acting against parliamentary supremacy and privileges by informing the media rather than Parliament itself,” he said.
He argued that the proposed changes to the Waqf Board Act indicate an attempt to erode the board’s autonomy and interfere in its operations. “The information leaked to the media about these amendments shows that the Modi government aims to diminish the Waqf Board’s independence, which is against the freedom of religion,” Owaisi added.
The AIMIM leader also accused the BJP of having a longstanding opposition to Waqf boards and properties, alleging that the party’s actions are driven by a “Hindutva agenda.” According to Owaisi, altering the establishment and composition of the Waqf Board could lead to administrative disarray and diminish its operational independence.
He criticised the potential for increased government control over the Waqf Board, arguing that it would adversely affect the board’s autonomy. “If the government gains more control, it will disrupt the Waqf Board’s independence,” Owaisi said.
He also expressed concern that any disputed properties could be manipulated through government surveys, leading to biassed outcomes. “The BJP and RSS have claimed that many dargahs and mosques are not actually religious sites, so their involvement in surveys could compromise judicial independence,” he added.
Earlier reports have indicated that the government is considering introducing up to 40 amendments to the Waqf Act during the next session of Parliament. These proposed changes have sparked significant controversy and debate over their potential impact on the administration of Waqf properties and the board’s operational autonomy.
The debate continues as stakeholders and political figures weigh in on the implications of the proposed amendments, with concerns about the preservation of religious freedoms and administrative fairness at the forefront of the discussion.
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