HYDERABAD, Sept.2, 2024: All India Majlis Ittehad Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi has announced a nationwide protest against the newly introduced Waqf Amendment Bill 2024. Speaking at a rally in Mehboob Nagar, Telangana, Owaisi criticized the bill and urged Muslims across the country to participate in the demonstrations.
Owaisi addressed the crowd, condemning the Waqf Amendment Bill, which he claims is an assault on constitutional and religious rights. “We have gathered here today because of the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 introduced by the Narendra Modi government. This bill is a direct attack on our constitution and our religious rights,” he said.
The Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 proposes to replace the Waqf Act of 1995 with the Integrated Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Act. The bill, currently under review by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) led by Jagadambika Pal, aims to overhaul the management of Waqf properties.
In response to concerns from various Muslim organizations, the JPC has invited public feedback on the bill, allowing a 15-day period for submissions. An advertisement from the Lok Sabha Secretariat has called for input from individuals, organizations, and stakeholders via post, fax, and email.
The JPC has already met with key Muslim organizations, including IMCR, the All India Sunni Jamiat Ulama Mumbai and the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board. These consultations revealed several aspects of the bill that the Muslim community finds problematic, arguing that the proposed changes interfere with religious practices and beliefs.
Owaisi’s announcement marks the start of a nationwide campaign against the bill. He and other critics argue that it undermines the rights of Muslims. “The All India Muslim Personal Law Board has decided to launch a nationwide protest against this bill. We will ensure that people understand how this bill, pushed by the Modi government, threatens our constitutional rights,” Owaisi added.
As the debate over the Waqf Amendment Bill intensifies, increased political activity and public demonstrations are expected as groups mobilize to express their dissent.