Jammu Religious Bodies Oppose Andrabi’s Waqf Bill Support
Religious organizations in Jammu have strongly opposed the recent support extended by Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi to the proposed Waqf Bill. These bodies have expressed concerns, calling her support unacceptable and claiming that such a move could interfere with the autonomy of religious institutions and properties in the region.
Dr. Andrabi had earlier advocated for the implementation of the Waqf Bill, stating that it aims to improve transparency, streamline the management of Waqf properties, and curb misuse. According to her, the Bill would strengthen the administrative framework and help protect valuable Waqf lands and assets. However, this stance has triggered widespread criticism from local religious leaders.
The religious bodies fear that the new Bill, if implemented, might centralize control over religious properties, thereby reducing the role and influence of local management committees. They have raised apprehensions that the Bill could undermine traditional management practices and lead to government overreach in matters of religious significance.
Several religious leaders have accused Andrabi of acting unilaterally without consulting stakeholders, including representatives of various sects and communities that manage mosques, shrines, and other Waqf properties in the Jammu region.
“We will not accept any legislation that threatens our religious autonomy. The Waqf properties have been managed by local bodies for decades, and any attempt to centralize control will face strong opposition,” said a prominent religious leader from Jammu.
In response to the backlash, the religious organizations have called for open consultations and discussions before any legislation related to Waqf properties is introduced. They emphasized that any new law must reflect the consensus of all stakeholders to avoid conflict and ensure the fair management of religious endowments.
The controversy surrounding the Waqf Bill highlights the deep-seated concerns over religious autonomy, property rights, and governance in Jammu and Kashmir. It remains to be seen how the Waqf Board and Dr. Andrabi will address these concerns and whether a middle ground can be reached through dialogue.
- Religion World Bureau
