Senior BJP leader and former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has come forward to clarify the intent of the newly passed Waqf legislation in the Rajya Sabha, stating that the law is designed to increase transparency and accountability in the management of Waqf properties and will not interfere with mosques or religious sites.
The legislation, passed amid a heated debate, aims to bring reforms to how Waqf properties are managed across the country. Critics had raised concerns that the bill might allow the government to encroach upon religious institutions, especially mosques. However, Prasad dismissed these claims as politically motivated misinterpretations, stating that the sole objective of the bill is to curb corruption, mismanagement, and encroachments on Waqf lands.
Addressing the media and speaking in Parliament, Prasad emphasized that Waqf properties belong to the community and must be utilized effectively for their welfare, including education, healthcare, and community development. He reiterated that no mosque will be demolished or altered, and that the religious sanctity of such spaces is fully protected under the Constitution.
The new law introduces mechanisms such as stricter audits, digital tracking of assets, and penalties for unauthorized use of Waqf land. It also seeks to empower Waqf Boards with better governance tools, while ensuring checks and balances through legal oversight.
The bill has received support from NDA allies and was passed in the Rajya Sabha with a majority vote. However, opposition parties accused the government of rushing through the bill without adequate consultation with minority representatives. Some Muslim organizations have also called for clarity on the provisions to prevent misuse.
Despite opposition, the government stands firm on its stance that the reform is necessary to protect valuable Waqf properties from being illegally occupied or misused. As the bill now moves towards implementation, public awareness and transparent enforcement are expected to play a key role in its success.
