Push govt to repeal Waqf Act or face Muslim backlash: AIMPLB to BJP allies

By | April 23, 2025

Asaduddin Owaisi Condemns Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 at Save Waqf Conference in Delhi

New Delhi, April 22, 2025 — AIMIM president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi took a strong stand against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 during the Save Waqf Conference held in Delhi. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) organized the event to rally support against the newly passed law. Community leaders, legal experts, and scholars joined hands to oppose what they called a direct threat to Muslim religious and charitable institutions.

Owaisi Slams Government’s Move

Owaisi delivered a fiery speech. He accused the central government of trying to illegally seize Waqf properties. According to him, the amendment gives the state excessive power and undermines the autonomy of the Muslim community.

“This is a clear attempt to take control of our religious trust. The Constitution gives us the right to manage our religious affairs, and this law goes against that right,” Owaisi declared.

Key Features of the Controversial Amendment

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 introduces several major changes:

  • It allows the government to decide who sits on Waqf Boards.
  • It gives state and central governments the authority to reclaim Waqf land for public use.
  • It requires all Waqf properties to be digitally registered and verified under a national system.

While the government claims these steps ensure transparency, many fear they will lead to large-scale land disputes. In fact, critics believe the move could be part of a larger plan to weaken minority institutions.

Legal and Religious Leaders Express Concern

Prominent lawyer Zafaryab Jilani spoke out during the conference. He warned that the amendment could strip the community of historic properties, including mosques, dargahs, and burial grounds.

Additionally, organizations like Jamaat-e-Islami Hind and Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind shared deep concerns. They urged the government to scrap the amendment and start open talks with religious boards.

AIMPLB Plans Court Battle

The AIMPLB announced that it would challenge the amendment in the Supreme Court of India. Secretary Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani emphasized the importance of Waqf.

“Waqf is a trust, not just a piece of land. Generations have contributed to it. We cannot let it go to waste,” Rahmani said. He also called on civil society and legal professionals to join the legal fight.

Political Impact Likely to Grow

As elections approach, the Waqf issue may become a key political topic. Owaisi’s sharp criticism reflects a larger concern among many Indian Muslims, who feel increasingly sidelined by recent policy changes.