• durgesh dubey
• 23 Sep, 2024

Waqf

As the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) is currently holding hearings on the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, various organizations and experts are being invited to participate in the discussions. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh's Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh has emphasized the need for reforms in the Waqf Board, stating that every law must evolve over time. There has been a growing demand in Himachal to dissolve the Waqf Board, coinciding with a significant protest in the Shilai area of Sirmaur district advocating for this dissolution.

In a social media post, Minister Vikramaditya Singh wrote, "The interests of Himachal and its people should be paramount; the comprehensive development of Himachal must be prioritized. Jai Shri Ram! It is essential to update every law with the passage of time. Reforms are necessary for the Waqf Board as well." Known for often speaking independently of party lines, Singh has made remarks that diverge from the Congress party's stance, as no other Congress leader has publicly addressed the Waqf Board issue until now.

Opposition members have previously protested the Waqf Amendment Bill in the assembly, linking their objections to attacks on the Constitution, federalism, and minority rights. Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju was compelled to clarify that the bill does not violate anyone's religious freedom or any constitutional article. Last Thursday, the JPC also convened to discuss potential inclusion of non-Muslim members in the Waqf Board. The committee has solicited public suggestions regarding the Waqf Board and has received over 9.4 million emails and numerous written responses.

The political and social dynamics surrounding the Waqf Board in Himachal Pradesh have intensified. Minister Vikramaditya Singh’s call for reform is particularly significant in light of the ongoing mosque controversy. He stated, "It is essential to update every law with the passage of time," clearly indicating his stance on the need for change.

Meanwhile, opposition to illegal constructions in mosques is increasing in Shimla, Mandi, and Nerwa. On Saturday, hundreds rallied under the banner of the Devbhumi Sangharsh Committee, demanding investigations into unregistered outsiders. The committee accused the Waqf Board of functioning like a land mafia and called for its dissolution. Committee President Om Prakash and Vice President Vinod Negi noted that certain communities are purchasing land in the area, impacting the local demographics. They have also demanded the removal of illegal mosques and shrines, alleging that outsiders are operating as an organized mafia.

This situation is not only causing political unrest but also leading to social polarization. Singh's comments and the protests by the Devbhumi Sangharsh Committee have raised significant concerns within the local community. It remains to be seen how the administration will respond to this complex issue and whether reforms to the Waqf Board will be implemented.