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Is the New Waqf Bill Beneficial for the Muslim Community? Report: Qamar Ansari

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The recently introduced Waqf Bill by the government has once again sparked debate within the Muslim community. The bill is being presented as a step towards better management, transparency, and protection of Waqf properties across the country. However, differing opinions have emerged over whether it truly serves the interests of the Muslim community.

The new bill includes several key provisions, such as enhancing the powers of Waqf Boards, introducing a digital registry of Waqf properties, and initiating strict action against illegal encroachments. The government claims that the bill will ensure the protection of Waqf assets and that the revenue generated from them can be effectively used for education, healthcare, and welfare projects.

However, some religious and social organizations have expressed concerns. They argue that Waqf properties are inherently linked to religious purposes, and direct government interference could compromise religious autonomy. Some fear that the bill may hinder the freedom and original purpose of Waqf properties.

On the other hand, legal experts and reformist voices believe that if implemented honestly, the bill could be a positive step for the Muslim community. With better administration of Waqf assets—many of which have been mismanaged or encroached upon—the community could benefit in significant ways.

What’s the Difference Between the Old and the New Waqf Bill?

Old Waqf Law:
The earlier Waqf law, enacted under the “Waqf Act 1995,” aimed to regulate and safeguard thousands of Waqf properties across India. Key features included:

  • Establishment of State Waqf Boards.
  • Responsibility for property management vested in the Boards.
  • Mandatory registration of Waqf properties.
  • Appointment of Mutawallis (caretakers) with board approval.

Over time, however, the law revealed weaknesses in its implementation. Problems such as illegal encroachments, corruption, and ineffective oversight continued to rise.

New Waqf Bill:
The new Waqf Bill introduces several major changes, aiming to modernize the system, enhance transparency, and incorporate technology. Key provisions include:

  • Digital Registry: All Waqf properties to be registered and monitored online.
  • Central Database: A national Waqf portal to provide public access to information.
  • Action Against Encroachments: Legal powers to swiftly remove illegal occupants.
  • Administrative Transparency: Stronger audit mechanisms and transparent functioning of Waqf Boards.
  • Grievance Redressal System: A responsive complaint cell to address corruption and misuse.

Summary of Differences:

AspectWaqf Act 1995 (Old Law)Waqf Bill 2025 (New Bill)
RegistrationManual registryDigital registry with a national portal
OversightState-level monitoringCentralized oversight and national database
TransparencyLimitedEnhanced transparency and robust auditing system
Action Against EncroachmentLengthy legal processSwift legal action provision
Public ParticipationWeak grievance mechanismActive grievance redressal system

The use of modern technology, improved transparency, and administrative reforms in the new Waqf Bill are promising aspects. However, some scholars and religious groups worry that increasing government involvement may infringe upon religious autonomy. The actual impact of the bill will largely depend on its execution and the extent to which the Muslim community is consulted and included in the process.

For now, it remains too early to say whether the bill will prove to be entirely beneficial for the Muslim community. Its success hinges on fair implementation and inclusive governance.

Maharashtra

Protection of religious places in Bhiwandi road expansion project, MLA Raees Sheikh assures protection of religious places after meeting with Municipal Commissioner

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rais shaikh

Mumbai: Samajwadi Party leader and MLA Raees Sheikh has demanded protection of religious places like mosque, temple, gurudwara, and Samaj Mandir in the Bhiwandi road expansion project. He has also demanded rehabilitation and compensation for the victims of the Bhiwandi and Kalyan road expansion project. Raees Sheikh was being accused of supporting the DP plan to benefit the builder lobby, after which Raees Sheikh met the Municipal Commissioner Bhiwandi Nizampur today and made it clear that the road and DP plan and policy are not prepared by the MLA. He said that the road expansion and DP plan should be changed and the protection of religious places should be ensured, on which the Municipal Commissioner Bhiwandi Nizampur assured Raees Sheikh that the protection of religious places will be maintained. If it is an obstacle in the survey, then necessary changes should be made in the project along with ensuring their protection. He said that religious places of any nature will be protected.

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Maharashtra

Khan can also become the mayor of Mumbai, just be a citizen of Mumbai… Criticism on BJP leader amiyat satum, Rais Sheikh Brahm for trying to give religious color to everything

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Mumbai: If you are a citizen of Mumbai and love Mumbaikars, then any person from Mumbai, D’Souza, Khan, Khanolkar, can become the Mayor. The BJP in Mumbai views everything through a religious lens, and this is completely wrong, said Mumbai Samajwadi Party MLA Raees Shaikh on Wednesday, reacting to a statement by BJP Mumbai president MLA Amit Satam. On Tuesday, BJP’s victory in Worli was challenged by MLA Amit Satam at the Sankalp rally, ‘If Shiv Sena (UBT) comes to power in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation, then ‘Khan’ will become the mayor of Mumbai. But the BJP will not let this happen. Any attempt to change the colour of Mumbai will be thwarted. Taking notice of this, MLA Raees Sheikh said, “Anyone can become the mayor of Mumbai, be it a Bohri, Parsi, Christian, Marathi, Muslim, Mumbai city is not a personal fiefdom of BJP, if Mumbaikars express their faith, then a Mumbaikar of any caste or religion can become the mayor of this city. MLA Sheikh further said that the double engine government in the state has ended. BJP has no problem left for Mumbai’s development. Therefore, BJP leaders create such problems and problems which increase religious division during the election period. BJP does not consider Mumbai’s development important. Therefore, this city is being made unsafe. The blood of our ancestors is also in the soil of this country. What do you see in the religion of political leaders? Look at the leader’s contribution and work in development, Raees Sheikh strongly criticized the BJP president and made these targeted criticisms. Made.

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Maharashtra

Mumbai Goregaon illegal call center exposed, 15 accused arrested

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Mumbai: The Mumbai Crime Branch has claimed to have busted an illegal call centre in the Goregaon area of ​​Mumbai. The call centre was used to defraud American citizens. In the name of updating antivirus software on a toll-free number, it used to fool American citizens and lure them into investing in crypto currency and dollars by luring them to buy gifts worth $250 to $500. On September 15, the Crime Branch Unit 12 received a tip-off and arrested 15 accused during the raid and recovered 10 laptops, 20 mobile phones, two call centre operators, a manager and 10 tolly group agents from the possession of the accused. The Crime Branch has registered a case under the Cheating and IT Act in this case. The operation was carried out on the instructions of Mumbai Police Commissioner Deven Bharti, Joint Police Commissioner Lakshmi Gautam and DCP Vishal Thakur.

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