BJP Defends Waqf Amendment Act Amidst Controversy and Opposition

Jamal Siddiqui, the National President of the BJP's Minority Morcha, expressed strong support for the Waqf Amendment Act. He described the legislation as a positive development, aligning with religious principles and promising significant advantages for the Muslim community.

Siddiqui stated that the protests against the act were being driven by individuals who previously controlled Waqf properties. He assured that the law would ultimately benefit Muslims throughout the country. He emphasized that the initiative was seen as a positive step by many.

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly has experienced significant disruption for three days due to demands for a discussion on the Waqf Amendment Act. Irfan Hafeez, a Congress MLA from Jammu and Kashmir, criticized the act, calling it interference in the religious affairs of the Muslim community. He argued that a discussion on the act in the Assembly was warranted. Hafeez also accused the central government of undermining India's secular identity.

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, came into effect on April 8. The bill passed the Upper House after a lengthy debate, with a majority of members voting in favor. The act seeks to amend the Waqf Act, 1995, and the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2013. The original acts established regulations for Waqf properties, created special courts, and restricted the sale of such properties.

The 2025 amendment introduces a selection process and fixed terms for Waqf Tribunal members. It also mandates the inclusion of non-Muslim members in both central and state Waqf boards. Additionally, the required annual contribution from Waqf institutions to Waqf Boards has been reduced. The implementation of the act has faced opposition, and several petitions challenging it have been filed in the Supreme Court.