The CPI(ML) MLAs in Bihar staged a protest on November 25, 2024 demanding the Bihar Assembly pass a resolution opposing the central government’s proposed Waqf Board Amendment Bill 2024. Speaking during the demonstration, CPI(ML) MLA and Legislative Group leader Comrade Mahboob Alam said that the proposed bill was prejudiced and a direct attack on the constitutionally guaranteed rights of religious freedom and faith for minority communities.
Mahboob Alam highlighted that the Sachar Committee's 2006 report had recognized Waqf as a socio-religious institution engaged in welfare activities. The report recommended providing the Waqf Board with necessary financial and legal resources to strengthen its administrative structure. Subsequently, in 2013, a consensus-driven approach led to effective amendments to bolster the Waqf Act.
“In stark contrast,” he stated, “the proposed legislation seeks to impose the political ideology of Hindutva. It fundamentally alters the role, authority, and powers of the Waqf Board.”
The CPI(ML) argued that the amendment bill in its current form should be withdrawn and that efforts should instead focus on strengthening and improving the management of Waqf properties through broad-based consultations in line with the Sachar Committee’s recommendations.
