120 monuments claimed by state waqf boards: ASI
- In Reports
- 03:09 PM, Sep 07, 2024
- Myind Staff
On September 6, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) presented its support for the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, during the fourth meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) reviewing the proposed legislation. The ASI highlighted its ongoing disputes with Waqf Boards across India concerning 120 historical monuments as a key reason for its backing of the bill.
The meeting reportedly saw tense exchanges, with officials from the culture ministry, which oversees the ASI, suggesting that Waqf Boards wielded arbitrary powers. In contrast, opposition members defended the authority of the Waqf Boards, leading to a heated debate during the discussions.
During the JPC meeting, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) provided a comprehensive presentation detailing their issues with Waqf Boards concerning protected monuments and sites. They outlined the challenges they face with numerous historical monuments and argued for the necessity of the Waqf Board Amendment Bill.
The Waqf Act of 1995 grants the Waqf Board the authority to designate any property or building as Waqf property for charitable purposes. According to sources, the Waqf Board has used this authority to declare protected monuments as Waqf properties, which has led to conflicts with the rights established under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958. This overlap in jurisdiction has created disputes regarding the management and preservation of these historical sites.
After the JPC meeting, Shiv Sena (Shinde group) leader and committee member Naresh Mhaske spoke to ANI, stating that Waqf Board properties are not being utilised for the benefit of the poor. He emphasised that this concern is a key reason for introducing the Waqf Board Amendment Bill. Mhaske noted that the bill is currently under deliberation by the committee and will soon be presented to Parliament for approval.
Mhaske also mentioned that during the meeting, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) raised concerns about properties that were previously conserved by the Indian government but have been claimed by the Waqf Boards without sufficient proof. He criticised the opposition for their approach, claiming they are primarily focused on opposing the amendment bill and engaging in a contest to deliver the most critical speeches.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which aims to address issues related to the powers of State Waqf Boards, the registration and survey of waqf properties, and the removal of encroachments, was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, August 8. This bill amends the Waqf Act of 1995 and was presented by Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.
The introduction of the bill has been met with strong opposition from several parties, including Congress, DMK, NCP, Trinamool Congress, and AIMIM. Critics argue that the bill's provisions are contrary to federalism and constitutional principles. Some members have called for the withdrawal of the bill, while others have proposed that it be referred to a standing committee for further scrutiny.
Kiren Rijiju has agreed to the suggestions for further scrutiny of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 by a parliamentary committee.
The proposed bill aims to rename the Waqf Act of 1995 to the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Act, 1995. The draft legislation seeks to establish separate boards for the Bohras and Aghakhanis within the Waqf system. Additionally, it proposes to enhance representation by including Shias, Sunnis, Bohras, Aghakhanis, and other backward classes within the Muslim community, as well as some non-Muslims, in the management of waqf properties.
Image Source: Op India
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