The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has opposed any attempts to alter the Waqf Act, 2013. The board warned that it will not tolerate any changes that might reduce the powers of Waqf boards or make it easier for the government or individuals to take over Waqf properties.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, the AIMPLB expressed concerns that the Centre is planning to introduce around 40 amendments to the Waqf Act. These changes, the board claims, could make it easier to take possession of Waqf properties, which are meant for religious and charitable purposes.
The board’s statement read, “We have received reports that a Bill proposing such amendments may be introduced in Parliament next week. The Waqf properties are donations made by Muslim philanthropists for religious and charitable causes. The government’s role has only been to regulate these properties through the Waqf Act.”
The AIMPLB stressed that the Waqf Act and Waqf properties are safeguarded by the Constitution and the Shariat Application Act of 1937. Any amendments that alter the status or nature of these properties would be unacceptable, the board added.
“Muslims will never accept any changes that affect the status of Waqf properties. We will not tolerate any interference with the legal and judicial status or powers of Waqf Boards,” the press release concluded.
