Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson, Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi, has expressed support for the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, stating that she does not anticipate any negative outcomes from its implementation.
Dr Andrabi as per news agency JKNS said that the bill, once passed, is expected to contribute positively to the betterment of Waqf institutions.
She said, the importance of legislative improvements and expressed confidence that the amendments would be beneficial.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 aims to modernize the management of Waqf properties by enhancing transparency, ensuring equitable representation—including that of Muslim women and non-Muslims—and reducing litigation, she said.
The bill proposes renaming the Act to the “Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Act, 1995.” Key amendments include clarifying property dedication rules and repealing Section 40, which previously allowed Waqf boards to unilaterally decide on the status of properties as Waqf, Andrabi said.
Supporters of the bill argue that these amendments will bring accountability and transparency to Waqf boards, help reduce corruption, and ensure fair representation.
The introduction of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 has thus sparked a mix of support and opposition, reflecting the complexities involved in reforming Waqf property management in India. (JKNS)
