Wed Apr 02 07:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Saharanpur MP Imran Masood Condemns Wakf Amendment Bill as Anti-Minority
**Saharanpur, UP:** Saharanpur MP Imran Masood launched a scathing attack on the government over the recently introduced Wakf amendment bill, calling it a violation of constitutional guarantees and an affront to India’s diversity and tolerance. Masood criticized the bill for allegedly undermining the Constitution’s promise of equal protection to all citizens.
He highlighted the bill’s provision for a 22-member Wakf Board with only 10 Muslim members, granting a non-Muslim majority control. Drawing a parallel with the Kashi Vishwanath Trust, Masood pointed out the existing rule that designates the DM as an ex-officio member, subject to replacement by another officer if the DM is Muslim. He argued that this demonstrates a pattern of discrimination.
Masood further criticized the bill’s ambiguity surrounding disputed Wakf properties, stating that only undisputed properties will fall under the board’s purview. He cited the example of 11,500 hectares of land in Uttar Pradesh declared government land despite ongoing disputes, implying the bill will further disenfranchise the Muslim community from their rightful properties. The bill’s removal of the tribunal’s authority to adjudicate disputes, with no clear timeline for government resolution, creates a situation where disputed land remains under government control indefinitely, Masood warned. This, he argued, opens the door for further encroachment and illegal occupation.
Masood challenged the government to cite any other religious trust facing similar discriminatory treatment. He stated that such actions reveal a larger agenda targeting the Muslim community’s land holdings. He concluded his criticism with an emotional plea for equality and protection, rejecting what he termed “sougat-e-Modi” (Modi’s gifts) in favor of legislation ensuring the safety and security of the Muslim community.
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