- April 1, 2025. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has stepped up its objections to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
Additionally, it has urged secular political parties (including those in the National Democratic Alliance, NDA) to oppose the bill when it comes to Parliament.
Allegedly, the AIMPLB argues that the proposed bill is a potential threat to constitutional autonomy.
Additionally, integrity of Waqf properties across the country. Apparently, the AIMPLB claims that the proposed bill has the potential to change the nature of Waqf properties in the country.
Countrywide Protests and Symbolic Protests
To foster public sentiment, the AIMPLB has begun interventions in the form of countrywide protests.
Specifically, on March 17, a protest march was held in New Delhi at Jantar Mantar. Evidently, it was attended by thousands from the Muslim community, clergy leaders, and support from various opposition leaders.
Certainly, with the intention of appealing to the conscience of secular political parties across the spectrum.
The march to protest was entitled, “Save the Waqf.” In addition, exacerbating their actions, the AIMPLB made a call for Muslims all over the country during the last Friday of Ramzan.
Popularly known as Alvida Juma, to wear black armbands as a sign of opposition toward the amendments that were proposed to the bill.
This was intended as a peaceful protest movement and gathering. In order to oppose the power of the bill. Additionally, an implied sign of unification of the community against the amendments.
Political Support and Criticism
The bill has drawn opposition from various political camps. Samajwadi Party (SP) Member of Parliament (MP) Dimple Yadav said the opposition stands as one against the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024.
Allegedly, they are resisting the bill collectively. Akhilesh Yadav, SP chief, stated the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is trying to create division in society with their proposed changes to the waqf platform.
Subsequently, stating support for AIMPLB in their opposition of the proposed bill.
Legal and Constitutional Issues
AIMPLB has termed Waqf (Amendment) Bill as “undemocratic” and “unconstitutional,”. Stating the bill encroaches on the rights of the Muslim community and the sanctity of Waqf properties.
The board has declared it will pursue all legal, constitutional, and democratic mechanisms to oppose the waqf bill. Additionally, including challenging the legislation in court, if it passes.
Different Views Within the Community
Although the AIMPLB is leading the opposition, there are varied opinions in the Muslim community about the bill.
Consequently, The different organizations expressed support for some amendments. As a matter of fact, it clarified a separate board will be needed to protect properties and the rights of Sajjadanashins.
The plurality captures the complexity and varying stances within the community on the proposed amendments.
Government’s Position and Next Steps
Evidently, the government argues the amendments will accommodate greater transparency and efficiency for administering Waqf properties.
Yet, critics argue the bill may permit the appropriation of Waqf properties along with the dilution of rights of the Muslim community.
The bill will move through Parliament. Henceforth, the next steps will depend on how secular parties and opposition respond to the positions of the AIMPLB.
Additionally, the mobilization of public opinion against the bill.
The AIMPLB’s encouragement to secular parties to refute the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and nationwide protests.
Moreover, coupled with symbolic protests, indicates an underlying urgency concerning the proposed legislation within the Muslim community.
Therefore, as the deliberations unfold in the next weeks, the outcome will determine whether the bill moves forward.
Additionally, its impact on Waqf properties and a minority community.
