Anger simmers within the Muslim community following the passage of the Waqf Bill. It is being described as a pre-election tactic. JDU leader Zafar Alam and LJP leader Mu. Ali Alam have voiced their opposition, with Ali even resigning.
Waqf Bill 2025: The passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 in Parliament has elicited mixed reactions from Muslim organizations and representatives, with a blend of protest and support. Several leaders have denounced it as an election ploy, while others have expressed concerns about religious discrimination.
Muslim Leaders Assert Government Has No Right Over Waqf Property
Rafiq Alam, a Zilla Parishad member from Dhoraiya, stated that Waqf Board property is based on land donated years ago for religious sites. He accused the government of politicizing the issue ahead of elections.
Maulana Yunus Qasmi, District President of Imrate Sharia, said that the land belonging to many religious sites has been under the Waqf Board for generations, but government interference is now creating controversy.
Ulema Council Condemns External Interference in Religious Sites
Mu. Kamal, District President of the Ulema Council, stated that the organization is currently studying the bill and will issue an official statement afterward. Meanwhile, Mu. Akhtar Hussain, a member of the Suiya Madrasa, said that politics in religious matters can be detrimental to peace.
JDU and LJP Leaders Oppose the Bill
Zafar Alam, District President of the JDU Minority Cell, described the bill as anti-Muslim, arguing that including members of other faiths in religious sites is impossible.
Mu. Ali Alam, District President of the LJP Ram Vilas Minority Cell, also opposed the bill, stating his disagreement with his party's support for it. He announced his resignation from the party.
