"Bill will address basic societal needs," says Muslim Rashtriya Manch hails cleareance of Waqf Amendment Bill

New Delhi [India], January 28 (ANI): The Muslim Rashtriya Manch National Convener Shahid Sayeed on Tuesday hailed the clearance of the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) saying that the bill will serve as an effective means to address basic societal needs while empowering the underprivileged and weaker sections.
National Convener and Media In-charge Shahid Sayeed remarked, "This bill will serve as an effective means to address basic societal needs while empowering the underprivileged and weaker sections. Waqf properties will no longer remain restricted to religious activities but will be utilized for sectors like education, healthcare, and employment."
"Shahid Sayeed attributed this achievement to Muslim Rashtriya Manch's (MRMs) relentless efforts, campaigns, and awareness initiatives. Over 1,000 programs were organized across the nation to educate people about the bill's relevance. More than 250 representatives from various MRM organizations presented well-reasoned arguments before the JPC," as per a Muslim Rashtriya Manch press release.
Shalini Ali, Chief of the Women's Wing and National Convener, praised the bill, saying that it ensures transparency and accountability, thereby promoting equality and prosperity in society
"The bill ensures transparency and accountability, fostering equality and prosperity in society. Awareness campaigns were conducted to involve all sections of society and promote women's participation," she stated.
Dr. Shahid Akhtar called the Waqf Amendment Bill a landmark step toward equality and development in society. He termed it not just a law but a new beginning aimed at promoting education, healthcare, employment, and social welfare through Waqf properties. Other organizations associated with MRM described the bill as a symbol of hope and prosperity for all sections of society.
MRM emphasized that the bill would ensure digitalization and transparent management of Waqf properties, eliminating corruption and irregularities. Shahid Sayeed proposed establishing educational institutions, hospitals, skill development centers, and employment hubs through efficient utilization of Waqf properties. He also stressed the importance of third-party audits and public use of these assets. According to him, the bill benefits not only the Muslim community but also contributes to the development and prosperity of the entire nation. Supporting the bill, he said, is the responsibility of every citizen who envisions India as an equitable and progressive nation.
The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on Tuesday cleared the Waqf Bill 1995 with 25 amendments across 14 clauses/sections.
Speaking to ANI, JPC Chairman Jagdambika Pal said that there will be a meeting in Delhi tomorrow to adopt the Waqf Bill.
"We had got voting done on all amendments proposed by the Opposition. The entire procedure transparently took place. We have sent the revised bill to the legislative department. There will be a meeting to adopt the bill in Delhi tomorrow. The JPC report will also be adopted tomorrow. After this, we will request the Speaker to present the amended bill. Everything is on record. Kalyan Banerjee, A Raja, Owaisi, Sanjay Singh, Imran Masood have always disrupted the meetings. I have always given them a chance to speak and also do cross-examination of those appearing before the JPC," Pal said. (ANI)