- Bill permits non-Muslims on waqf boards managing $14B in historic Islamic properties
- Opposition calls measure unconstitutional amid rising Hindu nationalist property claims
- New documentation rules could invalidate centuries-old mosque and cemetery endowments
India's Lower House passed the Waqf Amendment Bill after midnight debates, marking Prime Minister Modi's latest reform affecting Muslim institutions. The legislation mandates district-level approval for property claims and introduces non-Muslim administrators to oversight boards governing religious endowments. Supporters argue this combats corruption in managing over 870,000 properties spanning 400,000 hectares nationwide.
Critics highlight parallels to recent Hindu temple management laws, noting disproportionate scrutiny of Muslim institutions. The Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind organization warns the bill enables state seizure of undocumented properties, including Delhi's 17th-century Akbarabadi Mosque currently embroiled in litigation. Home Minister Amit Shah countered that non-Muslim board members will ensure transparent use of donationswithout interfering in religious matters.
Regional tensions surfaced in Uttar Pradesh where the Gyanvapi Mosque dispute exemplifies growing property conflicts. Local courts recently ordered archaeological surveys at multiple Islamic sites following Hindu nationalist petitions. Legal experts predict the new law could accelerate similar cases by shifting burden of proof to waqf boards.
Economic analysts note India's waqf properties generate $230M annually through leases and agricultural use. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board claims poor documentation stems from British-era land records, not mismanagement. They've proposed digital cataloguing instead of legislative overhaul.
International observers echo concerns from the USCIRF report documenting increased anti-Muslim rhetoric. However, Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju maintains the bill aligns with Singapore's multi-faith endowment model, claiming it prevents parallel governance systems.
The legislation now moves to India's Upper House where Modi's coalition holds 45% seats. Political scientists suggest passage could embolden Hindu nationalist groups ahead of key state elections in Maharashtra and Bihar with significant Muslim populations.
