Government and Opposition Clash Over Waqf Amendment Bill in Parliament

Proposed changes to the Waqf Act spark heated debate on religious freedom, transparency, and representation in Waqf boards.

The Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 proposes over 40 changes to the 1995 Act, including the inclusion of women and non-Muslims in Waqf boards.
Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, citing the need for transparency and protection of inheritance rights for women and children.
Opposition parties criticized the bill as unconstitutional and an attack on religious freedom, demanding its withdrawal or referral to a standing committee.
The bill has been sent to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for further scrutiny and stakeholder consultation.
Union Minister Smriti Irani called the amendment 'the need of the hour' for the Muslim community, particularly for women.