Union Home Minister Amit Shah, on Wednesday, addressed concerns over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, firmly stating that non-Muslim members in the Waqf Board will have no role in religious matters. He criticized the opposition for "spreading misconceptions" and assured that the bill does not interfere with the religious practices of any community.

Amit Shah’s Response to Waqf Bill Controversy

Dismissing claims that the inclusion of non-Muslims in the Waqf Board amounts to interference, Shah labeled these allegations as unfounded and misleading. He emphasized that the bill is designed to enhance transparency and curb mismanagement of Waqf properties.

"There is no provision for any non-Muslim to be involved in managing religious institutions. This false narrative is being spread to create fear among minorities for political gains," he asserted.

He clarified that the role of non-Muslim members would be strictly administrative, ensuring compliance with legal provisions and overseeing the appropriate use of donations. "Their job is to monitor whether the Waqf administration is functioning as per the law and whether funds meant for religious and developmental activities are being used properly," he explained.

Tackling Misuse of Waqf Properties

Shah assured the Muslim community that no non-Muslim would interfere in Waqf matters. Instead, the focus of the Waqf Board and Waqf Council would be on identifying and eliminating corruption within the system. He accused certain individuals of illegally selling Waqf properties or leasing them under dubious arrangements, resulting in revenue losses that should otherwise be directed towards minority development.

Addressing Legal Concerns and Transparency Measures

The minister also criticized the 2013 amendments to the Waqf Act under the Congress government, which, he claimed, deprived affected individuals of legal recourse. "How can any government decision be beyond the purview of courts? If someone's land is taken, where should they seek justice? Congress did this for vote-bank politics, and we are reversing it. Now, anyone with grievances can approach the court," he declared.

The new amendments introduce mandatory financial reporting, balance sheet submissions, and audits by retired CAG officers to ensure transparency. Shah questioned why anyone would oppose transparency and accountability.

Rebutting Retrospective Effect Allegations

Another misconception, according to Shah, is that the amendments apply retrospectively. "The bill clearly states that it will come into effect only after the government issues a notification post-passage. There is no retrospective effect. Such claims are misleading," he clarified.

Legislation for Justice, Not Vote-Bank Politics

Shah concluded by reiterating that the BJP and the Narendra Modi-led government do not legislate for political appeasement. "Laws are enacted for justice, not for electoral gains," he stated, taking a firm stance against what he described as the Congress’s past appeasement policies.