08 august 2024 : Asaduddin Owaisi, representing the AIMIM (All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen), vehemently criticized the Waqf Amendment bill introduced in parliament today, labeling it as “discriminatory” and “arbitrary.” He asserted that the bill infringes upon the fundamental Right to Freedom of Religion guaranteed by the constitution and would facilitate government control over not only Waqf properties but also those associated with dargahs and mosques.
The proposed legislation, which seeks to amend the current framework on 44 points, has already faced condemnation from Opposition parties, who have described it as “draconian.”
“No legislation should restrict an individual’s right to bequeath or manage their property. However, consider the implications of your actions—Hindus are permitted to bequeath their entire estate to their children, while I, as a Muslim, am limited to one-third. I can make gifts, yet I am prohibited from dedicating my property to Allah. You are impeding my ability to pray and hindering my service to Allah,” Mr. Owaisi remarked.
He specifically challenged a provision that prohibits converts from donating to Waqf for a period of five years. “How can one ascertain that a person has been practicing for five years? What mechanism will be in place for verification?”