Article: Muslim fundamentalists will be weak … Waqf modifications will open the way for progress

Kausar Jahan, New Delhi: It is unfortunate to do the politics of the opposition regarding the amendment law in the Waqf Board Act. Inertia is harmful for any community. Most of the people of the Muslim community have understood this, but efforts are being made to mislead them.The truth is hiding: I talked to many Muslim scholars about Waqf reforms, no one could explain what will benefit or harm the common Muslim. Yes, contractors in the name of religion are definitely afraid that their shop will be closed, their illegal occupations will be exposed. The property which should have been used for the betterment of the common Muslim is being misused. To hide this, radicals want to shield common Muslims. Common Muslims benefit from these reforms. This will end the monopoly of a few people. When this was talked about in the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), the opponents there tried to stop the discussion rather than meaningful suggestions.

Way of progress: Today, there is a splash in Muslim society how he/she became part of the reforms by freeing himself from the pressure of radical forces. he/she wants to join the mainstream of development. Muslim women also want the path of their equal participation to open. Waqf amendment is also in line with the need of the hour and the spirit of the constitution. The foundation of the Constitution rests on the principle of equality. Representation of women in Waqf will curb corruption, new ideas will come.

Late late: In fact, the step of Waqf improvement should have been taken long ago. The Waqf Board will be able to work more effectively than the amendments proposed by the Central Government for the new system by correcting old mistakes. This is in line with the recommendations of the Sachar Committee, which was once advocated by the people of UPA. Those who are calling it an interference in religious affairs should understand that it is not related to worship, but a matter of management of properties. To ensure better use of properties, it is necessary to free Waqf from the clutches of selected people today. Efforts are being made to implement a transparent, accountable and uniform representation system by amending the Act. The participation of neglected sections of the Muslim community has been arranged in the amendment.

Necessary improvement: The new provisions arrange that the Waqf property should be identified in a fair manner and if there is any dispute then it should be properly disposed of. The Waqf Board will be more competent, transparent and accountable by these amendments. The central government will be able to audit through the CAG. Transparency will be brought by registering the Waqf lands in the revenue department of the district headquarters and making a record in the computer. You will get a chance to go to court for justice. The tribunal’s decision will be challenged in the High Court. I believe that the old law was about to divide Muslims. We should welcome the new all -round law. Change requires time.

(Writer is the president of Delhi Haj Committee)