Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, the President of the Apni Party in Jammu and Kashmir, has been a vocal advocate for the reform and proper management of the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board. His concerns have centered on the governance of the Waqf Board and the proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Bukhari has been actively engaging in discussions surrounding this bill, which has garnered significant attention in the region due to its potential impact on religious and community affairs.
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Historical Context: The PDP’s Role in Waqf Board Management
Bukhari has repeatedly pointed to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as being responsible for the current mismanagement of the Waqf Board. He highlights that, during their rule in 2003, the PDP brought the Waqf Board under government control as a political maneuver. Bukhari believes that this move was not done in the best interest of the community but rather to settle political scores with the National Conference (NC).
This decision, according to Bukhari, resulted in a significant loss of the autonomy and independence of the Waqf Board. Instead of functioning as a self-regulated body, the Waqf Board became entangled in bureaucratic inefficiencies, which in turn hindered its ability to serve the religious and social needs of the people. As a result, Bukhari has been advocating for the restoration of the Waqf Board’s independence and proper management.
Concerns Over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is currently under review by a parliamentary committee. The proposed amendments aim to modernize the functioning of the Waqf Board, streamline its operations, and improve its accountability. However, Altaf Bukhari has expressed several concerns about how the bill could affect religious practices and the governance of Waqf properties in Jammu and Kashmir.
One of Bukhari’s primary concerns is that the bill may grant excessive control to the central government, which could lead to decisions being made without sufficient consideration for local needs and sensitivities. He stresses that the current governance of the Waqf Board should not be over-centralized, as it could result in the marginalization of local stakeholders, particularly religious leaders and community representatives who have a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural and spiritual needs.
Emphasis on Religious Leadership and Community Involvement
Altaf Bukhari has called for the inclusion of local religious leaders, or Ulema, in the decision-making process related to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. He believes that the Ulema possess a wealth of knowledge about the region’s religious and social landscape and should be consulted before any major policy changes are made. By involving the Ulema, Bukhari argues, the government can ensure that reforms will align with the values, traditions, and religious needs of the local community.
In addition, Bukhari is keen to prevent the alienation of the religious community, which could occur if the bill is passed without adequate consultation with local religious figures. He has consistently voiced his belief that all stakeholders should have a voice in shaping the policies that will affect them directly. This could also pave the way for a more transparent and accountable process, which would foster greater trust between the government, the Waqf Board, and the public.
Altaf Bukhari’s Vision for the Future of the Waqf Board
Altaf Bukhari envisions a Waqf Board that is not only independent but also well-managed and transparent. His vision includes establishing a robust regulatory framework that ensures the effective management of Waqf properties, with a focus on social welfare, education, and healthcare for the local community. He believes that the Waqf Board can play a significant role in promoting societal development, provided it is managed in a way that upholds the values of fairness, justice, and inclusivity.
Bukhari’s push for reform extends beyond the mere administrative overhaul of the Waqf Board. He advocates for a broader discussion on how Waqf properties and funds can be better utilized for the benefit of the people, particularly in terms of supporting educational initiatives and providing healthcare services in underserved areas. These initiatives could help improve the quality of life for many in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in rural areas where access to basic services is limited.
Inclusivity and Democratic Processes in Reform
Bukhari’s advocacy for the reform of the Waqf Board highlights his commitment to inclusivity and democratic processes. He has consistently called for the involvement of all relevant stakeholders, including local religious leaders, civil society groups, and community representatives, in the reform process. By promoting transparency and accountability, Bukhari aims to ensure that the Waqf Board’s operations are in line with the principles of fairness and justice.
In his statements, Bukhari has emphasized that the reform process should not be rushed but should instead involve careful consultation and dialogue. He advocates for a more patient and thorough approach to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which will ensure that the bill is crafted in a way that truly benefits the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Conclusion: A Strong Call for Balanced Reform
Altaf Bukhari’s stance on the Waqf Bill reflects his broader political philosophy of prioritizing the needs of local communities and promoting inclusivity in governance. His concerns about the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, focus on ensuring that the reforms are balanced and that they take into account the interests of all stakeholders, particularly the religious community.
As the bill progresses through the legislative process, Bukhari’s calls for greater consultation, transparency, and inclusivity will likely continue to influence discussions surrounding the reform of the Waqf Board. Ultimately, Bukhari’s advocacy is a reminder that effective governance requires the active participation of all those affected by policy decisions, particularly in matters as sensitive as religious affairs and community welfare.
BY – JYOTHI
