The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has recently raised strong objections against the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) and the Central Government regarding the proposed Waqf Amendment Bill 2024. The spokesperson of AIMPLB, S.Q.R. Iliyas, has accused the JPC of unfair practices and alleged that the proposed amendments aim to seize Waqf properties across India. This issue has sparked widespread discussions, with many questioning the intentions behind the bill.
Speaking at a media briefing following AIMPLB’s 29th conference in Bengaluru on Sunday, Iliyas expressed his concerns over the functioning of the JPC. He stated,
“The JPC, formed to address stakeholder concerns, is favoring individuals who lack any authority on this issue. This behavior violates the very rules and principles of fairness.”
He further criticized the JPC for not performing its duties effectively and accused it of being biased against AIMPLB representatives.
Concerns Over the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024
Iliyas emphasized that the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 is designed to undermine Waqf properties systematically. He alleged that all 44 proposed amendments were drafted to alter the status of these properties, leading to potential misuse and destruction of their original purpose.
He remarked,
“The bill has been cleverly framed to usurp Waqf properties, violating the cultural and religious autonomy guaranteed under the Constitution.”
The AIMPLB has also voiced strong opposition to the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC), calling it a direct threat to religious freedom and cultural expression. Iliyas reiterated that Muslims would never compromise on Sharia law, labeling the UCC as a “well-thought-out conspiracy” by the ruling government.
Religious Places and the Places of Worship Act
Addressing the ongoing disputes surrounding religious sites, Iliyas cited the Places of Worship Act, asserting that the religious character of any place of worship should remain unchanged as of Independence Day.
However, he condemned recent incidents where false claims have been made against Islamic places of worship, including:
- Gyanvapi Masjid (Varanasi)
- Shahi Idgah (Mathura)
- Bhojshala Kamal Maula Masjid (Madhya Pradesh)
- Teliwali Masjid (Lucknow)
- Jama Masjid (Sambhal, UP)
These disputes have led to tensions and violence, with Iliyas highlighting an incident in Sambhal where clashes during a mosque survey resulted in the deaths of three Muslim devotees. This violence also left 20 police personnel injured and prompted authorities to shut down schools and suspend internet services in the region.
The Road Ahead
The AIMPLB’s stand against the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 and its criticism of the JPC’s handling of issues underline a growing divide between the government and the Muslim community. The board has vowed to challenge these amendments, urging fair representation and protection of religious and cultural rights.
As the debate unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government addresses the concerns of stakeholders and navigates these sensitive issues. The AIMPLB’s resistance highlights the critical need for a balanced approach to safeguard both constitutional rights and societal harmony.
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