Jammu, 09-04-2025: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah launched a scathing critique of the recently passed Waqf Amendment Act, expressing deep concern over what he described as a direct interference in Muslim religious affairs. Addressing the media on Wednesday, Abdullah stated that the bill has stirred discontent across large sections of the country, particularly among the Muslim community, who view the amendment as a deliberate infringement on their religious autonomy.
“There was absolutely no justification for bringing in this amendment,” Abdullah said. “A particular religion is being targeted, and the sentiments of an entire community are being hurt. What is more disturbing is the provision that allows non-Muslims to oversee and review the activities of the Waqf Boards. This is not just unfair; it’s provocative.”
Questioning the double standards behind the legislation, Abdullah challenged the central government’s approach: “Would you ever allow a non-Hindu to monitor the functioning of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board or the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board? Can a non-Sikh be allowed to audit the workings of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)? If not, then why this discrimination when it comes to Muslim religious institutions?”
He went on to indicate that his party would explore legal options to oppose the controversial Act, hinting at a possible challenge before the Supreme Court. “We are seriously considering moving the highest court of the land against this unconstitutional move,” Abdullah added, underlining the gravity of the situation.
Meanwhile, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti also came out strongly against the Waqf Amendment Act and the political theatrics surrounding it. Addressing a press gathering, she condemned the conduct of the ruling party over the past few days, calling it a “shameful drama” that unfolded both in the legislative assembly and at the Tulip Garden event.
Mufti didn’t hold back in her criticism of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of systematically targeting the Muslim community across India. “Muslims are being attacked from every direction—this is no longer subtle; it’s blatant,” she said.
She also censured the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister for warmly receiving Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who has openly supported the Waqf Amendment Act. “By choosing to welcome and host Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, the Chief Minister has sent a disturbing message to the Muslim population: that the J&K administration is aligned with and endorses this Act,” Mufti asserted.