Women to be included in Waqf Boards, sign of a big change in country

NEW DELHI: There are indications that in the amendment bill brought by the central government to reform the Waqf Board, it is recommended to include women in the boards. The representation of women will be there in all states and central board. Two women will be appointed. Presently there is no female representation in Waqf Boards dealing with Muslim religious affairs and the administration of mosques. This will change now.

As per the existing law, Waqf property cannot be questioned in any court. Even the Muslim-majority countries of Saudi Arabia and Oman do not have such a law. Government sources indicate that the new amendment is to remove this.

The Personal Law Board had accused the central government's move to amend the Waqf Act as being against religious freedom. However, the BJP had rejected this. Efforts are being made to ensure female representation on the board. The BJP has clarified that this is based on various complaints from the Muslim community.

The amendment is to introduce strict inspection for Waqf property and land and women's representation. There is criticism that this will curtail the jurisdiction of the Waqf Board widely. The new amendment will take away many of the powers given to the Waqf Board during the UPA government. On Friday, the cabinet approved about 40 amendments in the Waqf Act.