I, like many other engaged citizens, have poured over the details of the "Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024" and it has become apparent to me that this bill, if passed, would profoundly affect our community's personal and religious rights. This goes beyond policy - it is a matter that touches on our personal and religious lives; it has a bearing on the properties that are near and dear to us.

These concerns are not unfounded or exaggerated. We are talking about Waqf properties which are a crucial part of our religious and cultural heritage. The proposed amendments bring about a threat to the sanctity and integrity of these properties, potentially allowing unjust encroachment or misuse.

The Joint Parliamentary Committee, in its press communique dated 29th August 2024, has invited suggestions on this bill. We seize this opportunity to voice our collective concern and stand united against any amendment that seeks to disrupt our way of life. Being a democratic country, it is just right that our voices are not only heard but also acted upon.

We, therefore, urge all concerned authorities to consider the gravity of this situation and reject the "Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024". This is not just a appeal for a single law amendment, it's for protecting our community's rights and heritage. We call for an open, inclusive discussion that takes our concerns into consideration, before any future amendment is considered.

We need every voice to amplify this message. Stand with us, sign this petition, and help protect our community's rights.

Please note the issue will not be resolved by removing few provisions of the bill as the Bill completely warrant rejection, hence we have not touched upon any section specifically in this letter as it will not be solved by amending that section.

After careful consideration, we have identified several significant concerns that we believe warrant the rejection of this bill.

1. Intent and Impact on Waqf Properties : The intent of the legislature and the impact of the proposed provisions clearly indicate that this bill is designed to remove various Waqf properties from their status as Waqf and to diminish the control and management authority of Mutawallis/Caretakers.

2. Sacredness and Charitable Application of Waqf Properties: It is important to note that Waqf properties are private properties (before being Waqf), legally acquired and then dedicated as Waqf by the Waqif (the legal owner) for the cause of Allah. The sacredness, religious significance, and charitable application of these properties as specified in Shariah will be seriously compromised by the new amendments.

3. Lack of Sufficient Consultation : The bill has been introduced without adequate consultation with key stakeholders, including Muslim scholars, Waqf boards, and the Muslim community at large. This exclusion undermines the democratic process and disregards the voices of those most affected by these changes.

4. Violation of Constitutional Protections: The Constitution guarantees religious freedom and the right to manage religious affairs without undue interference. By centralizing control over Waqf properties, the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 contradicts these constitutional protections and may set a dangerous precedent for further encroachment on the religious rights of minorities.

5. Addressing Mismanagement and Corruption: The issue of mismanagement and wrongful use of Waqf properties is primarily a result of corruption and the wrongful use of power by officers holding positions within Waqf boards. These issues can be effectively addressed by removing corruption and imposing exemplary punishment on those who misuse their powers.

In light of these concerns, we strongly REJECT THE WAQF AMENDMENT BILL 2024  and SUGGEST THE committee to instead FOCUS ON ACTIONS THAT ADDRESS CORRUPTION AND MISUSE OF POWERBY THOSE HOLDING POSITIONS WITHIN WAQF BOARDS.

Thanks and Regards

AIMPLB, AIMIM, JIH, JUH, AIMMM, SIO, Ulama Council & Muslim Society, Ulama Council & Hindu Muslim Society, Hindu Muslim Unity Forum

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