Waqf Bill: Muslim delegation meets JPC member in Ajmer

Ajmer/Jaipur: A delegation of functionaries from various Muslim organisations in the state met Saharanpur MP Imran Masood, a member of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) formed for the Waqf Amendment Bill, during his day-long visit to Ajmer on Sunday. In a memorandum addressed to JPC chairman Jagdambika Pal it submitted to Masood, the delegation voiced strong opposition to the proposed amendments.
The delegation, comprising figures from United Muslim Forum Rajasthan (UMFR) and various social organisations, argued that the Waqf is a religious institution, and any amendments that interfere with its governance would be a violation of Muslims’ constitutional rights.
“The proposed changes are an infringement on the religious rights of Muslims, and we firmly oppose any attempt to alter the structure of the Waqf system. The govt’s intentions behind this amendment are questionable,” said Muzaffar Bharti, founding president of UMFR.
A key point of concern raised by the delegation was the potential inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf boards. “Waqf properties are endowed by Muslims for religious and charitable purposes. Bringing in individuals from other faiths to manage these properties is unacceptable,” he added.
He accused JPC of calling organisations with vested interests for consultations before it, alleging that bodies that are real representatives of Muslims are being ignored by the panel.
The delegation urged the JPC to reconsider the proposed amendments, warning that any changes to the Waqf Act could lead to widespread unrest among the Muslim community. Imran Masood assured the delegation that their concerns would be conveyed to the committee.
Meanwhile, Abdul Salam Johar, president of Muslim Progressive Federation (MPF), announced plans to start a signature and awareness campaign to educate non-Muslims about the significance of Waqf properties.
“There is widespread misinformation suggesting that Waqf properties are encroachments on govt land. In reality, these properties have been donated by Muslims centuries ago, and they serve a vital religious and charitable role,” said Johar.