The Bill is the first major initiative from the BJP-led NDA government aimed at reforming the registration process for Waqf properties through a centralised portal.
It proposes several reforms, including establishing a Central Waqf Council alongside state Waqf boards with representation for Muslim women and non-Muslim representatives.
During a press conference chishti expressed deep concern over the provision allowing the appointment of non-Muslims in waqf boards.
Waqf boards are religious bodies governed by Islamic principles and the inclusion of non-Muslim members and leadership would compromise the religious integrity and autonomy of these institutions, he said.
the Anjuman warned that this could result in genuine Waqf board properties becoming disputed, disrupting their religious and charitable practices.
Chishti also dismissed as BJP sympathisers, Muslim bodies that extended support to the Bill.
He also warned that the community would “treat with them accordingly”.
Regarding the Joint Parliamentary Committee formed to review the Bill, Chishti said, “The Muslim community has faith only in All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, chief Asaduddin Owaisi to fight against it. Our faith in other parties such as the Congress diminished long ago in matters related to our faith.”
