Team ClarionÂ
PATNA — The Patna-based prominent socio-religious organisation, the Imarat Shariah, has condemned the Waqf legislation recently passed by the Parliament. Warning against its provisions, the Imarat Shariah announced plans to hold a meeting with the All India Muslim Personal Law Board and the Gaddi Nashin (custodians) of all Khanqahs across India. The organisation also expressed its intent to prepare a comprehensive strategy and may, if necessary, approach the Supreme Court to challenge the legislation.
The Waqf legislation has stirred a wave of opposition, with several political leaders and Muslim organisations raising concerns. Congress and All India Majlis Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) have already moved the Supreme Court challenging the new Waqf provisions. Imarat Shariah has also intensified its stance, promising to explore all legal options to safeguard Muslim interests.
“In this upcoming meeting, we will decide on the right course of action within the framework of the law. Protesting and filing a petition in the Supreme Court are among the options being considered,” Maulana Atiur Rahman Qasmi, Nazim of Imarat Shariah, said.
The bill has generated significant controversy, particularly regarding its provision to include non-Muslims in the management of Waqf properties. Maulana Ashar Rahman Qasmi, commenting on the issue, stated, “After carefully reviewing the bill, a decision will be made in consultation with the All India Muslim Personal Law Board and other organisations. The inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf properties is a fundamentally wrong move.”
Furthermore, Maulana Wasi Ahmed, Qazi of Imarat Shariah, condemned the bill as an “attack on the Constitution of India.” He raised pointed questions about the bill’s legitimacy, including the controversial provision requiring certification of a practicing Muslim identity for five years. “Who will be responsible for certifying someone as a practicing Muslim for five years?” he questioned. “If there is any legal recourse, we will approach the Supreme Court and take necessary steps.”
In a political twist, Ishtiaq Ahmed, a prominent leader from Imarat Shariah and the ruling Janata Dal-United (JD-U), warned that the Waqf Bill could have major repercussions for political parties in the upcoming elections. He criticised statements from JD-U leaders, suggesting that their stance on the bill might be more radical than that of the BJP, potentially alienating Muslim voters. “If BJP begins offering tickets to Muslim candidates, many in the community might be ready to support them,” Ahmed added.
The situation remains tense, with Imarat Shariah preparing for a larger mobilisation against the bill. The Muslim leadership, in collaboration with other key organisations, is gearing up for a strategic response, which could include mass protests and legal challenges in the coming weeks.
