In a move to rename the current Waqf Act of 1995, the Waqf Board Amendment Bill, 2024 was tabled in the Parliament by Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju. The bill has now been referred to a joint committee for further deliberation, amidst criticisms from various parties. The bill aims to establish a Central Waqf Council and give the district collector the power to determine the ownership of disputed lands, sparking concerns over interference in religious affairs.
Waqf Board Amendment Bill: A Controversial Move
Background:
The Waqf Board manages properties belonging to the Muslim community in India. The current Waqf Act was enacted in 1995. The Waqf Board Amendment Bill, 2024, proposed changes to this act.
Key Provisions of the Bill:
Criticism and Controversies:
The bill has faced criticism from various parties, including:
Current Status:
The Waqf Board Amendment Bill, 2024 has been referred to a joint committee for further deliberation. The committee is expected to submit its report by the next session of Parliament.
Top 5 FAQs on the Waqf Board Amendment Bill:
Q1: What is the purpose of the Waqf Board Amendment Bill? A: To amend the Waqf Act of 1995, primarily to establish a Central Waqf Council and give district collectors the power to determine disputed waqf land ownership.
Q2: Why is the bill controversial? A: Muslim leaders and opposition parties argue that it interferes in religious affairs and gives excessive power to the government.
Q3: What are the key changes proposed in the bill? A: Renaming of the act, establishment of a Central Waqf Council, and empowerment of district collectors in determining land ownership.
Q4: What is the current status of the bill? A: It has been referred to a joint committee for deliberation and report by the next parliamentary session.
Q5: What are the potential implications of the bill? A: Concerns have been raised about the government's increased control over Muslim properties and the possibility of disputes over land ownership.
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, along with his daughters, concluded his 11-day 'Prayaschit Deeksha' at the Tirumala temple in Tirupati on Wednesday. The deeksha was undertaken to seek forgiveness for the alleged use of animal fat in the famous Tirupati laddu. Kalyan will be unveiling a declaration at a public meeting in Tirupati on Thursday before offering meals to devotees in the Anna Prasadam complex and discussing the matter with TTD officials. He had started the deeksha on foot from Alipiri on Tuesday and launched it on September 22 at a temple in Nambur, Guntur district. The leader stated that the laddu, revered by millions, had been defiled due to the actions of the previous ruler and that seeking forgiveness was necessary for cleansing the sins.
Amid heated debate over a controversial bill that aims to redefine the relationship between the government and Indigenous Maori, the country's parliament was thrown into chaos on Thursday as two lawmakers were ejected and a vote was suspended. The bill, which would specify that Indigenous rights should apply to all New Zealanders, has drawn fervent opposition and sparked protests throughout the country. Despite its unpopularity, the bill passed its first vote due to the political influence of a minor party and reflects a longstanding tension and disagreement over the interpretation and implementation of the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi.
As India prepares to celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti, a bank holiday has been announced in various states in honor of the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi also took to social media to pay his respects and share his thoughts on the significance of Guru Nanak's teachings of unity and service. He also wished everyone a happy Guru Purnima, commemorating the day with a traditional greeting and message of goodwill.
The Central Selection Board of Constable (CSBC) has released the results for Bihar Police Constable recruitment exam, which was conducted on various dates in August across the state. The Board initially scheduled the exam for October 2023 but had to cancel it after the first day due to issues. A total of 21391 constable positions will be filled through this recruitment drive.
Tulsi Gabbard, a former US Army member and trained in martial arts, has been appointed as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) by President-elect Donald Trump. A video of her firing guns and pistols and going through a military training course has surfaced, impressing netizens with her skills and determination. Some even believe she has what it takes to become the first female US president.
President-elect Trump has chosen Fox News host Pete Hegseth as his nominee for U.S. Secretary of Defense. The controversial pick deviates from the traditional mold for government service as Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. While he is best known for his eight years as a commentator and host on Fox News, Hegseth also has a background as an Army Combat Veteran and has led veteran's advocacy groups.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has extended the "Disturbed Areas" status to the jurisdictions of six police stations in Manipur's valley region, following recent incidents of violence. This move comes after months of ethnic conflict in the state, with the MHA citing ongoing sporadic violence in certain areas. While the AFSPA grants armed forces personnel the authority to use force against individuals violating the law, it also requires Central Government approval for prosecution, raising concerns about potential misuse of power.
On the birth anniversary of India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, political leaders across the country paid their respects and remembered his contributions to the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Leader of Opposition Gandhi, and Congress President Kharge all shared heartfelt messages honoring Nehru's values and ideals, which continue to guide India towards progress and inclusivity. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also highlighted Nehru's unwavering commitment to fearlessness and selfless service in nation-building and urged the public to not be swayed by those who spread fear.
President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Fox News host and former army veteran Pete Hegseth as his nominee for the Defense Secretary role. Critics are raising concerns about his lack of experience and right-wing views, while supporters applaud him for his strong advocacy for military members and pardons for U.S. military service members facing war crime charges. Despite some surprise and hesitancy from Republican senators, former Rep. Jason Chaffetz believes Hegseth's nomination will easily be confirmed.
Senator John Thune of South Dakota has been elected as the new majority leader for Senate Republicans, replacing Mitch McConnell. Thune, who has promised to collaborate closely with President-elect Donald Trump, won the internal election against competitors John Cornyn and Rick Scott. As the GOP prepares to take majority control of the Senate, Thune will have the challenging task of managing a divided conference, navigating Trump's demands, and securing policy wins for the new administration.