The central government's Wakf Amendment Bill is facing opposition in Jammu and Kashmir. Mehbooba Mufti termed it as an attempt to weaken Muslims, while Sajjad Gani Lone called it an encroachment on religious faith.
Jammu-Kashmir: Union Minister of Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, introduced the Wakf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday. The bill aims to improve the management of Wakf properties, ensure transparency, and remove complexities. However, the bill has received b opposition in Jammu and Kashmir. Various opposition parties and leaders have criticized it as being against the Muslim community and an unnecessary interference in religious matters.
Mehbooba Mufti's Accusation
People's Democratic Party (PDP) president, Mehbooba Mufti, while opposing the bill, stated that it has been brought to weaken Muslims. Mufti targeted the BJP, stating that incidents of Muslim killings and mosque demolitions have increased in the last 10-11 years. She appealed to the Hindu community to come forward and help run the country according to the Constitution. Mufti also warned that if this process continues, the country could move towards a situation similar to Myanmar.
Sajjad Gani Lone: Attempt at Interference in Wakf Bill
People's Conference president, Sajjad Gani Lone, also opposed the amendment to the Wakf Bill. He stated that Wakf is the custodian of the Muslim community's properties, and the amendments made by Parliament are a direct interference. He termed it another encroachment by right-wing forces.
Omar Abdullah's Opposition: 'Targeting Only One Religion'
Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that his party would not support this bill because it targets only one religion. He said that every religion has its own institutions and charitable branches, and targeting Wakf in this manner is unfortunate. Abdullah clarified that his party would oppose this bill and raise its voice against it in Parliament.
Need for Wakf Reform
BJP leader Darakshan Andrabi welcomed the bill. She raised questions about Wakf properties and said that despite Wakf possessing so much property, many Muslims are poor and homeless. Andrabi appealed to the government and the Prime Minister to reform Wakf so that the condition of the Muslim community improves and they can receive better facilities.
