Aparajita Sarangi Hails “Fruitful” Discussions on Waqf Bill Amendments

By A Staff Reporter — Bhubaneswar, Odisha: BJP MP Aparajita Sarangi, a member of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, described the recent committee session as productive and thorough, with discussions spanning eight hours. The session focused on reviewing 44 proposed amendments to the Waqf Act of 1995, which oversees the management of waqf properties across India.

Sarangi shared that 16 organizations and several individuals participated, presenting a range of perspectives on the amendments. "It was a very fruitful discussion," she remarked, noting that the committee considered varied viewpoints. While some attendees supported the changes, others raised concerns, reflecting the diversity of opinion on managing and regulating waqf properties.

The committee took an open-minded approach to both supportive and dissenting feedback, Sarangi said, emphasizing that all viewpoints were considered respectfully. She praised the balanced discussions, which addressed complex issues central to the governance of waqf properties, including administrative, religious, and community interests.

The proposed amendments aim to update the Waqf Act, enacted in 1995, to improve transparency and management of waqf assets. These changes span administrative procedures, property rights, and dispute resolution mechanisms, intending to modernize the legislation for contemporary needs.

With parliamentary debate ongoing, Sarangi hopes that the committee’s comprehensive approach will help craft legislation that meets the interests of waqf boards and the communities they serve.