SRINAGAR, April 17: Senior BJP leader and Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi, on Thursday firmly asserted that Waqf properties across the Union Territory — including mosques, shrines, graveyards, and other religious assets — are safe, secure, and governed lawfully under the newly introduced Waqf (Amendment) Act. She emphasized that the only section appearing confused or misinformed about the law are politicians, not the general public.
Speaking to media persons during her visit to Anantnag, Dr. Andrabi dismissed the controversy surrounding the amended Waqf law as a “manufactured political narrative” meant to create confusion and mislead the public for electoral gains. “Those who are genuinely associated with dargahs, mosques, and religious service are not perturbed or misled by the misinformation. It is only some political figures who are trying to exploit the situation to bake their political bread,” she remarked.
Dr. Andrabi clarified that the functioning of the J&K Waqf Board has been transparent, efficient, and aligned with legal and religious responsibilities since the last three years. “We have ensured proper management of all Waqf properties. There has been no misappropriation or encroachment. The public has witnessed how the Board has restored dignity and order in the management of these sacred places,” she added.
When asked about the ongoing legal scrutiny in the Supreme Court regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025, she reiterated that India is a democratic country, and it is the constitutional right of any citizen to challenge laws in court. “The Constitution provides legal remedies. The Parliament has passed the Act, and its implementation cannot be halted unless the court rules otherwise. Those who wish to approach the judiciary are free to do so,” she said.
She concluded by saying that the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board is fully committed to protecting the religious and cultural heritage of the region