Says “Changes will further disempower Muslims”
Srinagar: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has expressed serious concerns over the amendments and proposed bill related to Waqf properties, stating that the changes will further disempower Muslims.He stated that the issue is not only legal but also religious, as Muslim personal law has its own jurisdiction and powers, which are being ignored in the new provisions.
Speaking to KNS, Mirwaiz stated that Muslim institutions are systematically being weakened. He noted that scholars from Jammu, Kashmir, Kargil, and Leh have unanimously opposed the amendments, asserting that they go against the interests of Muslims. “We have submitted our memorandums, but it appears that they have not been considered,” he said.
He pointed out that the major issue is related to Waqf-e-Uzer, where properties used by the Muslim community for years could be at risk due to the removal of legal provisions safeguarding them. Another critical concern is the authority granted to collectors to decide whether a particular piece of land belongs to Waqf or the government, which Mirwaiz described as a serious challenge for the community.
Despite these reservations, Mirwaiz stated that the Muslim leadership is open to discussions on reforms that ensure transparency in Waqf matters, including improving women’s representation and making the Waqf system more stable. However, he criticized the way the process is being rushed, urging the government to delay the bill and allow further discussion.
He further remarked that stakeholders have not been adequately consulted and their suggestions have been ignored. “The chapter of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) is now closed, and the matter is heading to Parliament. It seems a decision has already been made,” he added.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq called upon the broader Indian society to take note of the issue and urged authorities to reconsider the amendments in the interest of protecting Muslim institutions and ensuring justice. (KNS)
