Waqf Act Row: Sufi Council Backs, Jamiat And Muslim Personal Law Board Oppose Amendment | Check Who Said What

The Centre's decision to amend the Waqf Board Act has sparked mixed reactions among prominent Muslim organisations in the country. The All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC) voiced support for the amendment, calling for the establishment of a separate Dargah Board. In contrast, groups such as the Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind and the Muslim Personal Law Board strongly opposed the move.

AISSC Chairman Syed Naseeruddin Chishti criticised the current Waqf Board, accusing it of operating in a dictatorial manner and lacking transparency. Chishti highlighted the absence of recognition for dargahs in the Waqf Act, asserting that the board fails to acknowledge dargah traditions. Consequently, the AISSC demands a separate Dargah Board to better represent their interests.

Naseeruddin Chishti expressed optimism that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill would consider the concerns of all stakeholders. He mentioned that an AISSC delegation had discussed these issues with Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju in a meeting the previous day.

ALSO READ: 'Against Freedom Of Religion': Asaduddin Owaisi Denounces Centre Over Likely Amendments To Waqf Board Act

Meanwhile, Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind President Maulana Madani condemned the government's intentions, alleging that the amendment aims to interfere in religious matters and seize valuable Muslim properties. He firmly stated, "We do not accept any such amendment that changes the status of Waqf."

The Muslim Personal Law Board echoed this sentiment, rejecting any modifications to the Waqf Board. The board has scheduled a meeting of its top officials on Thursday to further deliberate on the issue.