India’s Parliament has passed a bill that increases government oversight of properties held by Muslim trusts, sparking concerns that the move targets the country’s largest religious minority. The bill allows non-Muslims to be appointed to panels administering the trusts and empowers state officials to adjudicate disputes.
The Waqf boards, which have managed over 800,000 properties covering nearly a million acres, are one of India’s largest landowners. A government-commissioned report estimated the value of these properties at over $14 billion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling party says the changes aim to improve efficiency and accountability.
However, critics argue that the bill is part of a broader effort by the Hindu nationalist BJP to target Muslim communities. They point to recent instances where officials have bulldozed Muslim properties after alleged encroachment, often ignoring court orders. Right-wing groups have also claimed ownership of mosques and attacked Muslim shrines.
The bill’s introduction in Parliament was marked by passionate debate, with lawmakers on both sides presenting their arguments. While the government claims the legislation is about transparency, critics see it as an attempt to undermine Muslim rights.
Faizan Mustafa, a law university vice chancellor, warned that the bill could face challenges in court if its provisions infringe upon fundamental rights. “If any provision of the Waqf bill is in contravention of fundamental rights, it may be challenged and possibly struck down in the courts,” he said.
Imran Pratapgarhi, a Muslim parliamentarian from the opposition Congress party, expressed concerns that the bill would lead to the loss of Muslim properties and places of worship. He urged the government to respect Muslim rights and allow them to live in peace.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/04/world/asia/india-bill-muslim-land-waqfs.html