BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya on Wednesday hailed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 as a "significant reform" and shared a graphic comparing the provisions of the proposed law by the Centre with the prevailing practices in Muslim-majority nations like Pakistan.
In a post on X after Union minister Kiren Rijiju tabled the bill in Lok Sabha, Malviya said that the proposed legislation is aimed at modernizing the management and administration of Waqf properties in India with safeguards against misuse.
"As a key element of Islamic philanthropy, Waqf plays a vital role in supporting social welfare and religious activities. This amendment introduces centralized digital registration, stronger government oversight, and stricter legal safeguards against misuse," he said.
He added that Waqf laws differ across countries and showed a global comparison to give insights into how different nations are balancing religious principles with modern legal frameworks.
The graphic posted by Malviya indicated that many Muslim-majority countries do not have a structured Waqf Act and instead operate under fragmented regulations.
Pakistan, for instance, governs Waqf properties through multiple provincial laws, including the Sindh Waqf Properties Act (2020) and Punjab Waqf Properties Ordinance (1979).
The graphic highlighted that countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Turkey, and Iran lack centralized databases, financial audits or government oversight—elements that the Indian bill emphasizes.
Malviya also pointed out that countries like Saudi Arabia and Pakistan do no have women members in the governance board.
"Many nations do not provide dedicated representation for socially disadvantaged or backward Muslim communities in Waqf administration. The Indian Bill ensures representation from Shia, Sunni, Bohra, Aghakhani, and other backward-class Muslims, fostering diversity and inclusivity in Waqf management," he said.
He said the bill represents a progressive shift in India’s approach, emphasizing transparency, accountability and inclusivity.
The post comes amid a heated debate over the bill in Lok Sabha, with opposition parties opposing its provisions.