Waqf Law Was Twisted for Land Grab, Won’t Let It Continue: Amit Shah Slams Congress

New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah, speaking in the Lok Sabha on the Waqf Amendment Bill, strongly defended the proposed changes while accusing opposition parties of misleading Muslims for electoral gains.

Shah emphasized that no non-Islamic individual would be involved in Waqf affairs, but clarified that Waqf Boards and Councils were not religious entities. “The bill aims to prevent illegal leasing of Waqf properties at throwaway prices for extended periods,” he said, adding that it would ensure accountability and curb corruption in Waqf administration.

The Home Minister criticized the Congress for amending the Waqf Act in 2013, just before the 2014 general elections, calling it an “extreme” change that led to the transfer of prime properties to Waqf institutions. He cited examples, including Lutyens’ Delhi’s 123 VVIP properties and large tracts of land in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, which were allegedly declared Waqf properties through dubious means.

Shah asserted that while Waqf assets belonged to the Muslim community, their management needed transparency. “This bill ensures that Waqf properties are protected and not misused. Revenue from these lands should benefit the community, not enrich a few individuals,” he said. He also pointed out that despite vast Waqf holdings, annual revenue remained only ₹126 crore.

Responding to criticism, Shah reaffirmed that the bill did not interfere with religious practices but sought to regulate Waqf property management. “Even churches and Christian groups are supporting this bill,” he claimed, accusing opposition leaders of attempting to create communal division.

He further condemned the 2013 amendments, which allegedly made it impossible to challenge Waqf-related decisions in court. “In a constitutional democracy, no entity should be beyond judicial review,” he remarked. He also backed provisions allowing district collectors to verify Waqf property claims, arguing that land donations should be voluntary and not arbitrarily imposed.

The bill, aimed at enhancing transparency in Waqf property management, has sparked sharp political debate, with the opposition accusing the government of targeting minority institutions. However, Shah maintained that it was a necessary step to curb mismanagement and safeguard community assets.