The Indian government has introduced a bill aiming to reform the management of vast tracts of land designated for Muslim religious, educational, and charitable purposes. These lands, known as waqf properties, are protected from sale or transfer. With over 25 waqf boards holding nearly 900,000 acres, they rank among India’s top landowners.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration, seeks to include non-Muslim members in waqf councils and allow government intervention in ownership disputes. While officials claim the bill will curb corruption and mismanagement, critics fear it undermines Muslim property rights. Opposition leaders and Islamic organizations argue the move is an attempt to seize control over Muslim assets.
Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, calling it a “pro-Muslim reform” designed to ensure fairness. However, many question whether similar changes would apply to Hindu religious institutions.
A decisive vote in parliament will determine the bill’s fate. Meanwhile, concerns grow over the treatment of India’s Muslim community, which, despite its significant presence, faces socio-economic struggles. Muslim leaders accuse the government of enforcing policies that weaken their institutions, a claim Modi’s party strongly denies.
