Union Cabinet approves Waqf Amendment Bill with JPC recommendations: Reports
New Delhi: The Union Cabinet has approved amendments to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, incorporating 14 recommendations from the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), according to media reports. The bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament during the second half of the Budget Session, starting on March 10.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 8, 2024, proposes 44 changes to the existing Waqf law, which governs Waqf Boards at the Centre and state levels. The JPC, led by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, submitted its report on February 13.
Key amendments in the bill:
- Inclusion of non-Muslims and at least two women in Waqf Boards.
- Authority of an officer above the rank of Collector, notified by the state government, to determine if a property is Waqf.
- Mandatory representation of the Muslim OBC community in State Waqf Boards.
- Provision for establishing separate Waqf Boards for Aghakhani and Bohra communities.
- Protection of women's inheritance rights in Waqf Alal Aulad.
- Implementation of an online registration system for Waqf properties.
Opposition and Muslim organisations’ stand
Several opposition parties and Muslim organisations have opposed the mandatory inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf Boards, viewing it as government interference in the community's management of religious properties. They argue that the move threatens diversity and fundamental rights while increasing state control over Waqf assets, potentially leading to their political misuse.
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Vijay says no to CM convoy until swearing-in: TVK
Chennai (PTI): TVK chief Vijay declined to accept the police convoy vehicles provided to Tamil Nadu chief minister as per protocol until his swearing-in, the party said on Thursday.
A police official confirmed that the CM convoy vehicles provided to him "as per protocol" following the announcement of the Assembly election results were returned and have not been withdrawn.
The official also said that arrangements were in place for the swearing-in ceremony.
The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) clarified that its party founder Vijay had "personally requested that the convoy vehicles be returned". In a statement here, the TVK said: "Vijay conveyed that he would accept the official chief minister-level security only after forming the government with a decisive mandate".
Four convoy vehicles assigned to Vijay on May 4 after his TVK secured 108 seats in the Assembly polls returned from his residence following his request.
Even on May 6, the police had deployed security near his Panaiyur residence and in front of the Lok Bhavan here when Vijay called on Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar to stake his claim to form the government. Vijay did not use the government vehicle to meet the Governor.
