Waqf Bill Reaction in UP: What Do Maulana's Say? Know Their Suggestions

Waqf Bill Latest Update: After being passed in the Lok Sabha, the Waqf Bill was presented in the Rajya Sabha today. A heated debate is ongoing in Parliament over the bill. While discussions continue in the legislature, debates are also taking place among the public at tea stalls, street corners, and local gatherings.

The primary question is whether the old Waqf law was appropriate or if it had flaws. Some Maulanas acknowledge the shortcomings of the previous law but remain apprehensive about the consequences of the new bill. However, the general public lacks detailed knowledge of both laws and is forming opinions based on political statements.

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Newstrack correspondents spoke to several Maulanas, bringing their perspectives to you.

Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Welcomes the Central Government’s Decision

Reporter: Sunny Goswami

Bareilly: The National President of All India Muslim Jamaat, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi from Bahraich, has welcomed the Central Government’s decision and the MPs who voted in favor of the Waqf Amendment Bill. He stated that the bill would benefit poor Muslims and improve their economic conditions. He congratulated the government for taking a positive step to eliminate corruption, emphasizing that the bill would help impoverished Muslims.

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He also criticized the past misuse of Waqf properties, alleging that Waqf Board chairpersons colluded with land mafias for personal gain. He pointed out that the Waqf Board was originally established to support underprivileged Muslims but had been misused for vested interests.

Meanwhile, the passage of the bill has sparked political tensions in Bareilly. Given the presence of numerous Waqf properties in the Bareilly zone and surrounding areas, authorities from the state headquarters have instructed the police to maintain strict vigilance. In response, SSP Anurag Arya convened a meeting with senior police officers and issued necessary directives. IG Dr. Rakesh Singh confirmed that police in Bareilly, Badaun, Shahjahanpur, and Pilibhit have been put on high alert, along with intelligence agencies across the zone.

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“If the Property Reaches the Rightful Owners, We Support the Bill” – Hafiz Muhammad Uwais

Reporter: Neena Jain

In Saharanpur, Hafiz Muhammad Uwais, President of All India Jamiatul Huffaz, expressed disappointment over the close voting results—288 votes in favor and 232 against. He emphasized that the concerns of the 232 opposing members should also be considered.

He stated that the Waqf property issue has been sensationalized nationwide, creating an atmosphere of fear, particularly targeting one community. While he acknowledged the misuse of Waqf properties, he stressed that it is the government’s responsibility to ensure proper utilization and rightful ownership.

“If the properties genuinely reach the rightful beneficiaries, we support the bill. However, if this does not happen, the concerns we had before still remain. The fear is that wealthy and influential individuals who have already taken control of valuable Waqf properties will now legally claim ownership, and no one will be able to remove them,” he cautioned.

He urged the government to consider all aspects carefully, listen to both supporters and opponents of the bill, and make a fair decision. Furthermore, he expressed concern that the legislation could undermine constitutional values of unity and brotherhood among different religious communities, calling it an unfortunate and regrettable development.