The Council of Representatives of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind reviews the national and international situation and passes several resolutions
NEW DELHI – The Council of Representatives of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) has strongly condemned the newly enacted Waqf Amendment Act, terming it unconstitutional, unjust, and discriminatory. The council criticised the law for empowering government-appointed officials to adjudicate waqf-related disputes — effectively allowing the state to act as both judge and party. This, it warned, paves the way for encroachment on centuries-old Muslim religious properties, especially undocumented ones used historically by the community.
The council said the Waqf Act, passed despite widespread objections, undermines the autonomy of religious institutions and violates Article 26 of the Constitution. The council commended MPs and civil society organisations that opposed the law and called for sustained public and legal resistance until the law is repealed.
In its April 12-15 session at the organisation’s headquarters in the national capital, the council expressed deep concern over recent legislative trends, rising communal discord, growing economic disparities, and global human rights violations —particularly in Palestine. Under the leadership of JIH President Syed Sadatullah Husaini, the council passed several key resolutions addressing urgent national and international issues.
The Jamaat denounced Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza as one of the worst humanitarian catastrophes of the era, citing the deaths of over 60,000 civilians, along with widespread destruction of schools, hospitals, and refugee shelters. The council condemned the targeted killing of aid workers and journalists, stating these acts clearly violate international law, including UN resolutions and the Geneva Conventions.
It urged an immediate ceasefire, the opening of humanitarian corridors and recognition of Palestinian sovereignty.
The Jamaat also demanded that India return to its historic pro-Palestine policy, end all cooperation with Israel, and use diplomatic platforms to push for justice. It supported global student-led protests and advocated for boycotts and sanctions against Israeli businesses.
Expressing concern over the global trade crisis, the council criticised the protectionist tariffs imposed by developed nations, especially the United States. It argued that these policies reflect the dangers of capitalist greed, toxic nationalism, and unbridled materialism, which disproportionately affect the poor and marginal nations.
It called for an equitable and just international economic framework that prioritises the welfare of all people.
The council raised alarm over the increasing communal polarisation, state-supported demolition drives targeting Muslim properties, and interruptions to peaceful religious practice. It also condemned the desecration of mosques and madrasas, as well as selective law enforcement, which it said undermines national unity and the rule of law.
The Jamaat urged the Muslim community to stand firm in its ethical duty to promote good and prevent injustice, and to contribute actively toward building a peaceful, just, and inclusive society.
The council criticised the stark contrast between India’s sectoral economic growth and the worsening condition of its rural and informal sectors. Rising indirect taxes, shrinking subsidies, and growing corporate concessions have deepened inequality, with minority welfare schemes being systematically dismantled.
It called for a welfare-oriented economic model rooted in equitable wealth distribution, increased public spending on health and education, support for farmers, workers, and small businesses, implementation of interest-free financial systems to promote inclusive and ethical growth.
The council categorically rejected the imposition of the Uniform Civil Code, stating it infringes upon the constitutional rights of religious communities to follow their own personal laws. It specifically criticised the recent law in Uttarakhand and similar moves in Gujarat, describing them as unilateral, non-consensual, and socially divisive.
Reaffirming the importance of legal pluralism in a diverse society like India, the Jamaat called for the repeal of the UCC in Uttarakhand and an end to efforts to enforce a uniform code nationwide.
