With the passage of the Waqf Bill in both Houses of Parliament by a comfortable majority—including support from BJP allies and certain of getting the Presidential nod to become a law soon—it is now up to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure its effective implementation.
The focus must shift to reorganizing the Waqf Board, appointing credible and competent individuals, and ensuring that his commitment to uplifting marginalized Muslim communities, such as Pasmandas and Ahmadis, besides others, translates into tangible benefits. This is not just a matter of policy but a crucial step in fostering trust and inclusivity within the Muslim community.
Even as Modi’s government moves forward, resistance from leaders like Asaduddin Owaisi and the All-India Muslim Personal Law Board is expected. These groups have threatened to challenge the reforms both legally and through street protests. Their opposition, often wrapped in constitutional rhetoric, needs to be scrutinized to reveal the contradictions in their stance. Many of these leaders claim to represent Muslim interests but have historically benefited from the status quo, which has often left the most marginalized sections of the community deprived of their rightful welfare.
To make a real difference, the government must prioritize:
- Auditing and streamlining revenue models of registered and legitimate Waqf properties.
- Identifying genuine beneficiaries and ensuring they receive support within a set timeframe (e.g., six months).
- Implementing reforms efficiently to counter narratives that seek to discredit government efforts.
A sluggish or indifferent approach could allow detractors to gain traction, even among the very communities the government aims to help. The success of these reforms will be judged not by political rhetoric but by their actual impact on the lives of the underprivileged sections within the Muslim community.
Once Waqf Board reforms are in place, attention must turn to identifying individuals who have mismanaged or looted Waqf funds. Legal action, including property attachment if necessary, will demonstrate that accountability extends to all. Strong punitive measures against corrupt elements within the community will bolster trust in Modi’s leadership. Corruption within Waqf institutions has been an open secret for years, and unless the government takes decisive action against those who have misused funds, meaningful reform will remain elusive.
While many Muslims already acknowledge Modi’s impartial distribution of welfare schemes, lingering doubts persist. Addressing these concerns with concrete actions—such as streamlining benefits and ensuring accountability—can help bridge the trust gap further. The government must ensure that Waqf revenues are utilized in a transparent manner for the welfare of genuine beneficiaries rather than being siphoned off by vested interests.
After resolving fundamental issues, the next step should be reclaiming unregistered Waqf properties. State governments, particularly in non-BJP states, must handle this responsibility with neutrality, avoiding partisan interests. District collectors must ensure a transparent and accountable process so that an accurate assessment of legitimate Waqf properties can emerge. If this process is carried out with efficiency and integrity, it could lead to a more sustainable and beneficial use of Waqf assets for the community at large.
For these reforms to succeed, coordination among the three pillars of democracy—Legislature, Judiciary, and Executive—is essential. The Judiciary, while fulfilling its constitutional role, must ensure that legislative decisions are respected rather than obstructed. A well-functioning balance between these institutions will ensure smooth execution of reforms. The role of the executive is crucial in enforcing the law effectively, while the legislature must ensure that policies are designed for maximum social benefit.
India can achieve genuine secular democracy only when all constitutional pillars adhere strictly to their defined roles without overstepping their limits. If the government and its institutions act decisively, the restructuring of Waqf Boards can set a precedent for transparent and effective governance, ensuring that welfare reaches those who need it the most. By eliminating corruption, ensuring fair distribution of benefits, and maintaining transparency, Modi has the opportunity to reshape perceptions and establish a model of governance that is inclusive and equitable.
