Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have strongly opposed the amendments proposed in the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, calling it an infringement on religious affairs and a move to weaken the Muslim community.
The bill, tabled in the Lok Sabha by Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, aims to enhance the management of Waqf properties by ensuring transparency, streamlining operations, and incorporating technology-driven governance. However, opposition leaders have criticised the amendments as unconstitutional and detrimental to Muslim interests.
PDP president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti accused the BJP of attempting to disempower Muslims, citing a pattern of marginalisation over the past decade. She urged secular forces to intervene, warning that failure to do so could lead to communal unrest.
She called upon the Hindu community to resist the changes, stating that India should uphold the values of Mahatma Gandhi and function as per constitutional principles. Mufti further cautioned that inaction could lead to turmoil akin to what happened in Myanmar and to Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s.
Also Read: AIMPLB to challenge Waqf Bill in court, terms it 'black law'
People’s Conference chairman Sajad Gani Lone also condemned the proposed amendments, asserting that Waqf is the rightful custodian of properties collectively owned by Muslims.
He termed the move as a direct interference in religious affairs and a deliberate attempt to strip custodians of their authority.
National Conference vice-president and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reiterated his party’s opposition to the bill, stating that it unfairly targets only one religious community.
Also Read: Will new Waqf Bill clear the 'mess' in J&K?
He highlighted that all religions have their own charitable organizations and institutions, and altering the Waqf’s authority in such a manner is unjustified. Abdullah confirmed that National Conference MPs would strongly oppose the bill in Parliament.
In contrast, BJP leader Darakhshan Andrabi defended the amendments, questioning why Waqf-owned properties have not benefited the Muslim community despite extensive land holdings.
She argued that the government's intervention aims to ensure that Muslims receive better facilities and opportunities, rather than remaining economically disadvantaged.
The bill has sparked a heated debate, with opposition leaders warning of serious consequences if it is passed, while BJP leaders argue that the changes will bring transparency and better governance to Waqf properties.
Also Read: Waqf bill sparks Parliament showdown, Rijiju leads
Follow us
