NEW DELHI – India has passed a new bill aimed at reforming Muslim land trusts, known as Waqf boards, a move that has sparked significant backlash from minority groups. The government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, argues that the legislation will enhance transparency and improve the management of these powerful boards that control vast amounts of land and property across the country.
Supporters of the bill argue that it will lead to greater accountability in the administration of Waqf assets, which include mosques, schools, and charitable institutions. Modi’s administration has emphasized that the reform is designed to ensure that Waqf boards operate more efficiently and are less susceptible to corruption.
However, critics, particularly from the Muslim community, have voiced strong opposition, claiming the bill undermines religious autonomy and could lead to the mismanagement or appropriation of Muslim-controlled assets. The legislation has stirred tensions between the government and minority groups, who fear that the reform could be politically motivated.
Despite the controversy, the bill has been passed, with the government stating that the changes will benefit the long-term interests of Waqf institutions. As the implementation begins, all eyes will be on how it affects the relationship between India’s government and its Muslim population.