People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Chief Mehbooba Mufti launched a scathing attack on the Jammu and Kashmir government on Monday, accusing the National Conference (NC)-led administration of succumbing to the BJP’s “anti-Muslim agenda” after the Assembly Speaker rejected a motion to discuss the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
Calling the decision “profoundly disappointing,” Mufti said the government’s refusal to even debate the bill reflected its lack of courage in addressing a critical issue affecting the Muslim-majority region.
“Despite securing a strong mandate, the government appears to have completely yielded to the BJP’s anti-Muslim agenda, cynically attempting to appease both sides,” Mufti said in a post on X. She urged the NC to take cues from the Tamil Nadu government, which has openly opposed the bill.
The remarks came after Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather refused to entertain adjournment motions on the Waqf Bill, stating that the matter is sub judice, as it is currently pending before the Supreme Court.
The Assembly saw chaotic scenes as NC MLAs, led by Tanvir Sadiq, protested the decision by storming the well of the House and shouting slogans like “Ban karo ban karo Waqf Bill ko ban karo.” Marshalls were called in to restrain them.
Joining the fray, PDP leader Waheed Para accused the NC of playing a double game. “They say they oppose the BJP but on the ground, they are facilitating the BJP’s policies. Not opposing the Waqf Bill is a compromise on the issues of Kashmir and Muslims,” Para said.
He emphasized that Waqf properties are a matter of faith, not just real estate, and should be treated accordingly.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which received Presidential assent on April 5, aims to modernize the management of waqf properties using technology and streamline administration through reforms in registration, surveys, and dispute resolution. It repeals the Mussalman Wakf Act of 1923 and amends the 1995 Waqf Act.
The Bill passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 votes in favour and 95 against, and in the Lok Sabha by 288 to 232 votes following an intense debate. While the government claims the bill will bring transparency and efficiency, critics argue it undermines religious autonomy, particularly for Muslims.
With Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir looming later this year, the fallout from the Waqf Bill debate is expected to play a significant role in shaping political discourse in the region.
