AhlulBayt News Agency: The new Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 has started a major political and social debate in India. Asaduddin Owaisi, the leader of AIMIM, is strongly opposing this law. He is leading protests all over the country and raising concerns that this law might harm Muslim property rights and religious freedoms.
What is the Waqf Amendment Act 2025?
This new law changes some important parts of the original Waqf Act from 1995. Some of the main changes are:
- Redefining Waqf: Now, only Muslims who have been practicing Islam for at least five years can declare their property as Waqf.
- No More ‘Waqf by Use’: Earlier, properties used by Muslim communities for religious purposes over time could be called Waqf. This is no longer allowed.
- Non-Muslims in Waqf Boards: The law allows people who are not Muslims to be part of Waqf Boards. Many believe this could weaken the religious control Muslims have over these boards.
- Government Control: District collectors (government officials) can now decide who owns disputed Waqf properties, instead of Waqf Boards.
Because of these changes, many fear the government might be interfering too much and that minority rights could be at risk.
Asaduddin Owaisi’s Protest
Owaisi has been very vocal against this Act. He says the law is against the constitution and targets Muslims unfairly. He compared the protests against this law to the farmers' protests and said people will keep protesting peacefully until the law is taken back.
At a meeting with the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), Owaisi said, "You (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) will have to withdraw this law. Just like our farmer brothers showed the way, we will continue to protest peacefully until the law is repealed."
Protests and Legal Challenges
- Public Protests: People have gathered in many cities to show their opposition to the law.
- Court Cases: Several petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court challenging if the law is constitutional. The Court has not made a decision yet.
- Political Support: Parties like Congress support the protests and say it’s important to protect minority rights.
Government’s Response
The government says the law is meant to make managing Waqf properties more transparent and responsible. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the Supreme Court that requiring Muslims to have practiced Islam for five years before dedicating property as Waqf is in line with Muslim personal law.
This Waqf Amendment Act has become a major issue in India. While the government says it will improve how Waqf properties are managed, many believe it violates the rights of Muslims and their religious freedoms. As the Supreme Court reviews the case, the whole country is watching closely because the decision will affect minority rights and India’s secular values.
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