SRINAGAR: The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), a religious forum in Jammu and Kashmir, has strongly condemned the passing of the Waqf Amendment Bill in Parliament, calling it a direct interference in Muslim religious affairs. The MMU, led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, expressed deep concern over the legislation, stating that it is an attempt by the central government to curtail the autonomy of Waqf institutions and tighten its control over them.
According to the MMU, Waqf institutions have historically played a crucial role in catering to the socio-religious needs of the Muslim community. The organisation rejected the government’s justification that the bill aims to improve the functioning of Waqf bodies, asserting that the move aligns with a broader political agenda against Muslims.
“The community is well aware of the larger intent behind this legislation,” the MMU stated. “This is a deliberate attempt to weaken and encroach upon Muslim religious and community institutions over time.”
In response to the development, the MMU has scheduled a meeting of its members on Monday, April 7, to deliberate on the issue. Additionally, the group has initiated discussions with the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) and other prominent Muslim organisations across India to formulate a unified stance against the bill.
The MMU comprises various religious and social organisations, including Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid, Darul Uloom Rahimiyah Bandipora, Jamiat Ahle Hadith, and several other institutions. The collective body is expected to announce its next course of action following its April 7 meeting.
