Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed strong support for the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, asserting that it aligns with India’s constitutional values of being a “secular and democratic country.” In a statement, Fadnavis emphasized that the bill encapsulates the true spirit of the Constitution, marking a significant reform in the management of Waqf properties across the country.
“The Waqf Bill is in line with the Constitutional value that India is a ‘secular and democratic country.’ The bill defines the spirit of the Constitution,” Fadnavis said, highlighting the importance of ensuring that Waqf properties are used for their intended charitable purposes and not misused for political or personal gain.
The Chief Minister also took the opportunity to criticize the previous Congress-led government, accusing them of using the Waqf Act for appeasement rather than genuine reform. “The existing Waqf Act focussed solely on appeasement,” Fadnavis stated. “The biggest Waqf land scam happened during the Congress rule, and even an enquiry was carried out into it.”
Fadnavis’ remarks come amid growing debates surrounding the Waqf Amendment Bill, which aims to bring greater transparency and accountability in the management of Waqf properties. The bill includes provisions for auditing Waqf properties and establishing a portal for their registration, which supporters argue will prevent misuse and ensure that the properties benefit the intended beneficiaries, including the poor and marginalized communities.
The Waqf Amendment Bill has garnered both support and opposition, with critics raising concerns about potential centralization and the impact on minority communities. However, Fadnavis defended the bill as a necessary step toward rectifying the mismanagement and corruption that has plagued the Waqf system in the past.
As the bill progresses, all eyes are on its implementation and whether it will achieve its goals of improving transparency and addressing long-standing issues in the management of Waqf properties.
