AIMPLB Plans To Challenge Waqf Bill In Court, Calls It A ‘Black Law’

On April 2, 2023, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), a significant organization representing the interests of Muslims in India, announced its intention to legally challenge the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. The board described the proposed legislation as a “black law” that poses a serious threat to the rights and properties of the Muslim community. The bill was scheduled for debate and potential passage in the Lok Sabha, and if approved, it would subsequently be presented in the Rajya Sabha.

During a press conference, AIMPLB member Md Adeeb expressed strong opposition to the bill, asserting that it is an attempt to seize properties belonging to the Muslim community. He stated, “They have started this spectacle thinking they can take away our property. Can this be accepted? Do not think that we are defeated.”

Adeeb emphasized that the fight against the bill is just beginning, framing it as a crucial struggle for the preservation of the nation’s integrity. He pointed out that the bill faced significant opposition during its review by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), which was established to examine its provisions.

Adeeb urged all conscientious citizens to join in resisting the bill, reaffirming the AIMPLB’s commitment to opposing the legislation through both legal channels and public demonstrations. “We will go to court. We will not rest until this law is withdrawn,” he declared, highlighting the board’s determination to protect the rights of the community.

AIMPLB spokesperson Mohammad Ali Mohsin echoed these sentiments, stating, “We have started this fight because we want to save the country. Our aim is to put an end to this black law.” He indicated that the board is considering organizing nationwide protests, drawing parallels to the farmers’ agitation that took place in recent years. Mohsin stated, “We will organise programmes across the country just like the farmers did. If needed, we will block roads and take all peaceful measures to oppose the bill.”

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill seeks to amend the Waqf Act of 1995, which governs Waqf properties in India. The government has claimed that the amendments are intended to improve the management of these properties. The bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha in August of the previous year and was subsequently referred to the Joint Parliamentary Committee, which submitted its report in February 2023.

Among the contentious changes proposed in the bill are provisions that allow for non-Muslim members to be included in the Central Waqf Council and Waqf boards. Additionally, the bill stipulates that any government property identified as Waqf will no longer be classified as such, with ownership determined by the district collector. These changes have raised significant concerns within the Muslim community and among various opposition parties.

Opposition groups, including the Congress party, have voiced their disapproval of the legislation, arguing that the JPC did not adequately consider the suggestions put forth by opposition MPs. They have also accused the government of hastily pushing the bill through the legislative process without proper deliberation.

As the debate over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill continues, the AIMPLB remains resolute in its commitment to challenge the legislation, both in court and through public mobilization, asserting that the fight is not just about property rights but about the fundamental principles of justice and equality in India.