J&K Imams Read Joint Resolution Against Waqf Act

Several Imams in Jammu and Kashmir read on Friday a joint resolution against the Waqf Act during congregational prayers, despite the house arrest of Kashmir’s chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, The Hindu reported. The resolution, supported by the Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulama (MMU), was read in mosques across the Kashmir Valley and other regions, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the Waqf Amendment Act, 2025.

The resolution criticized the Act for reducing the powers of Muslim-led Waqf Boards, assigning greater roles to non-Muslim officials, and removing the requirement for the Chief Executive Officer to be Muslim. It also raised concerns about the removal of the concept of “Waqf by long-standing use,” which protects Islamic sites without formal documentation.

The MMU, comprising over 20 religious organizations, reiterated its support for the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) to address issues stemming from the new law. Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) attempted to protest against the Waqf issue but was thwarted by police. PDP leaders expressed their opposition to the Act, labeling it anti-Muslim and condemning the government’s approach towards the Muslim community.