Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD): Peoples Conference President and Handwara MLA Sajad Lone has strongly opposed the proposed amendments to Waqf laws, calling them a direct attack on Muslim religious rights and autonomy. He warned that the amendments would dilute the authority of Waqf institutions and interfere with religious affairs.
In a post on X, Lone stated, “Waqf, by definition, is the custodian of properties collectively owned by Muslims. It is an Islamic concept.” He criticized the bill as an unwarranted interference in religious affairs, alleging that it seeks to strip rightful custodians of their authority and place Waqf properties under government control.
Lone further described the amendment as “yet another right-wing trespass”, warning that such measures were part of a broader attempt to weaken the institutional and religious structures of Muslims in India. “The government’s repeated attempts to regulate and restrict Waqf properties expose its intent to marginalize our community,” he asserted.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introduced in the Lok Sabha by Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, has triggered opposition from multiple political parties and Muslim organizations. Critics argue that the bill seeks to alter the governance of Waqf properties, potentially limiting the authority of Waqf boards and increasing state intervention in religious matters.
Opposition parties, including the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), have also raised objections, calling the bill a deliberate move to erode the independence of Muslim religious institutions.
With protests expected to intensify, the government faces mounting pressure to clarify its position on the bill and address concerns about its potential impact on religious freedom and community-owned assets.(DD)