Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for celebration of the Waqf Amendment Bill, which he believes is a “watershed moment.” India’s Prime Minister assured it would empower marginalised communities and encourage transparency in the management of Waqf properties.
“The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill by both Houses of Parliament marks a watershed moment in our collective quest for socio-economic justice, transparency and inclusive growth. This will particularly help those who have long remained on the margins, thus being denied both voice and opportunity,” PM Modi tweeted.
The Prime Minister’s remarks were in sync with the BJP’s confidence that the Waqf bill was transformative aimed at helping the poor among the Muslims, who, the party claimed, had no say in the affairs of the community.
“For decades, the Waqf system was synonymous with a lack of transparency and accountability. This especially harmed the interests of Muslim women, poor Muslims, Pasmanda Muslims. The legislation passed by Parliament will boost transparency and also safeguard people’s rights,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the bill, which now requires the President’s assent to become a law, would usher in an era that would be more modern and “sensitive to social justice”.
“We remain committed to prioritising the dignity of every citizen. This is also how we build a stronger, more inclusive and more compassionate India,” he said.
According to the bill, a maximum of four non-Muslim members, including two women members, must be there in the Waqf Council. Moreover, senior officers above the rank of district collectors will now have the final say if a property is waqf or belongs to the government.
Pasmanda Muslims are among the most backward and socially oppressed in the community. In recent years, the BJP and PM Modi have tried to reach out to the “ignored” Pasmanda Muslims.
The Prime Minister said the bill, which now requires the President’s assent to become a law, would usher in an era that would be more modern and “sensitive to social justice”.
Also Read: Waqf Amendment Bill Passed Amid Heated Debate; Controversial Provisions Draw Criticism https://www.vibesofindia.com/waqf-amendment-bill-passed-amid-heated-debate-controversial-provisions-draw-criticism/
