Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the approval of the Waqf Amendment Bill in Parliament and called it a “watershed moment” that would empower the marginalized within the Muslim community and enhance transparency in managing Waqf properties. The Waqf bill, which allows the government to begin regulating Waqf properties, was approved by both Houses following lengthy discussions that extended well into the night over two days.
“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, who is on a visit to Thailand for the BIMSTEC Summit, tweeted.
The Waqf bill represents the second significant reform that the BJP has sought to enforce within the Muslim community following the criminalization of triple talaq in 2019.
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Engagement with Pasmanda Muslims
The Prime Minister’s comments aligned with the BJP’s assertion that the Waqf bill was a reform initiative intended to assist the impoverished within the Muslim community, which the party argued lacked representation in its matters.
PM Modi highlighted that the Waqf system has long been associated with a lack of transparency, negatively impacting the interests of impoverished Muslims, women, and Pasmanda Muslims.
“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.
Pasmanda Muslims rank among the most disadvantaged and socially marginalized within the community. Recently, the BJP and PM Modi have made efforts to connect with the “neglected” Pasmanda Muslims.
The Prime Minister stated that the bill, which now needs the President’s approval to become law, will lead to a period that is more contemporary and “attuned to social justice.”
