CM Omar Abdullah Slams Waqf Amendment Act, Signals Legal Challenge in Supreme Court

 Srinagar, April 9 (PTK) – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has raised strong objections to the recently passed Waqf Amendment Act, calling it a direct intrusion into the religious affairs of the Muslim community and hinting at a possible legal battle ahead.

Speaking to select media persons in Jammu, the Chief Minister voiced his disapproval over the legislation, stating that it has caused deep unease among a large section of the population.
“The amendment has left a significant portion of the community feeling that their religious matters are being interfered with,” Omar said.

He described the law as both “unjustified and discriminatory,” questioning the rationale behind its introduction.
“There was absolutely no justification for bringing this amendment. It’s clear that a particular religion is being singled out,” he said.

Taking aim at a specific provision that permits individuals of other faiths to be involved in the administration of Waqf properties, Omar raised concerns over double standards.
“Why is it acceptable to include non-Muslims in Waqf oversight? Are non-Hindus allowed to manage affairs of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board or Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board? Would anyone accept non-Sikhs monitoring SGPC activities?” he questioned.

He further warned that such actions risk deepening communal mistrust.
“This only widens the sense of marginalization and threatens the autonomy of Muslim institutions,” the Chief Minister emphasized.

Concluding his remarks, Omar hinted that the matter may soon reach the courts.
“We are actively considering taking this issue to the Supreme Court,” he said. (PTK)