The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government is poised to introduce the Waqf Act Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha today. The primary concerns of State Waqf Boards that this law seeks to resolve are the surveying and registration of waqf properties as well as the clearance of encroachments.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiran Rijiju is set to present the bill, which proposes amendments to the Waqf Boards Act of 1995. This development has already ignited a heated political debate. The opposition INDIA bloc contends that the bill is an attempt to undermine the rights of the Muslim community. They argue that it threatens to deprive Muslims of their land, assets, and the autonomy to manage their religious affairs, which they claim is protected under Article 26 of the Indian Constitution.

In contrast, the ruling NDA asserts that the amendment addresses longstanding demands from within the Muslim community itself. They argue that the changes are necessary for better management and transparency regarding waqf properties, which are vital to many religious institutions and charitable causes.

The bill's introduction is expected to stir further debate, reflecting broader political and social tensions surrounding the management of waqf properties. As the legislation moves through parliamentary processes, its implications for both the Muslim community and the governance of waqf properties will be closely scrutinized.