Despite strong opposition from Muslim communities and opposition parties, India’s Lok Sabha passed a controversial amendment to the Waqf Act on Wednesday. Critics are calling it a major blow to Muslim rights and Waqf property autonomy. Opposition leaders argue that the new law drastically curtails the powers of the Waqf Boards, which oversee properties donated for religious and charitable purposes within the Muslim community. India’s Minister for Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, defended the bill, claiming it would increase transparency and government revenue. Key provisions of the amendment include: • Mandatory inclusion of non-Muslims and Shia members on Waqf Boards. • Government officials, at the rank of Collector or above, can now investigate claims over properties declared as Waqf. • Waqf properties generating over ₹100,000 in annual income will be subject to audits by state-appointed auditors. • Women must transfer their inheritance property before declaring it as Waqf. • Only devout practicing Muslims are allowed to dedicate property as Waqf. • The power to determine whether a property qualifies as Waqf has been handed over to the administration. Muslim leaders have condemned the legislation, calling it an unprecedented encroachment on religious freedoms and community rights.