Srinagar: The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), a coalition of Muslim religious organizations in Kashmir, has formally expressed its opposition to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. In a letter addressed to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), the MMU outlined significant concerns regarding the proposed changes and requested a meeting with the committee to discuss these issues, reported The Hindu.
The MMU’s letter highlights apprehensions about the Bill’s provisions, which include the inclusion of non-Muslims and Muslim women on Waqf boards, as well as the proposed removal of the Board’s authority to declare properties as waqf. The organization has urged the public to remain vigilant, emphasizing that the Bill impacts fundamental religious institutions and practices.
In a related development, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the chairman of Hurriyat and a prominent leader in the Valley, was reportedly prevented by authorities from attending the MMU’s meeting in Srinagar. Mirwaiz expressed disappointment over his continued detention, questioning the claims of normalcy in the region.
Additionally, Mirwaiz paid tribute to the late CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury, who passed away in Delhi on September 12, 2024. Mirwaiz lauded Yechury for his advocacy of human and political rights in Jammu and Kashmir, recalling their meaningful interactions.
The MMU’s stance and the ongoing political developments underscore the tension surrounding the Waqf Amendment Bill and its potential impact on religious and cultural institutions in the region.
