Controversy Over Waqf Amendment Act: A Community's Concern

The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema expressed dissatisfaction with the Supreme Court's interim order on the Waqf Amendment Act. Although some provisions were stayed, broader religious and constitutional concerns remain unaddressed, unsettling the community. The MMU emphasizes that waqf is a religious trust, and any dilution of control is unacceptable.

The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU) has expressed disappointment with the Supreme Court's interim order, which put a halt on certain provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The court's decision, while a welcomed partial relief, has not alleviated the broader constitutional and religious concerns raised by the legislation.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq-led MMU highlighted that the act of waqf is not just about property but involves religious trust and the concept of 'service to Allah.' The legislated changes threaten historic protections and rights granted to religious denominations to manage their own affairs.

The group's unease persists, especially given the abolition of 'Waqf by user' and the power transfer to district collectors. This shift is viewed as undermining historical practices and granting excessive state control over sacred properties.

(With inputs from agencies.)