New Delhi: A delegation of Muslim scholars and religious leaders, led by Syed Naseeruddin Chishti, Chairman of the All India Sufi Sajjadanshin Council and successor to the spiritual head of Ajmer Dargah, met with Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju and Jagdambika Pal, Chairperson of the Joint Committee of Parliament (JPC), to express their support for the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
The discussions, held at Rijiju’s residence in New Delhi and later with Pal, focused on the recent proposals within the Waqf Bill introduced in the Lok Sabha. The delegation underscored their support for the bill’s amendments, which aim to address issues faced by Muslims due to the current management of the Waqf Board.
The JPC, consisting of 31 members—21 from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha—is reviewing the proposed changes. The delegation highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by the Waqf Board, including mismanagement, corruption, and land disputes affecting mosques across the country.
Expressing full confidence in the JPC’s deliberations, the delegation advocated for enhanced management, transparency, and accountability within the Waqf Board. They believe these changes will combat corruption and land grabbing while improving benefits for underprivileged Muslims.
Additionally, the delegation proposed the establishment of a separate ‘Dargah Board’ to better manage mosque-related matters. The JPC held its second round of meetings on Friday, which included participation from various Muslim organizations.
