Leaders criticised the bill for undermining Muslim autonomy, expressed grief over Prayagraj tragedy and criticised the 2025-26 central budget
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — Jamaat-e-Islami has raised a strong voice of opposition against the controversial Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, warning that the proposed legislation poses a serious threat to the religious and constitutional rights of Muslims. In a press conference held at the party’s central office in New Delhi, Deputy Ameer Jamaat, Professor Saleem Engineer, condemned the bill, arguing that it was introduced with partisan motives.
“This bill is a direct assault on the autonomy of Muslims and their rights,” stated Professor Engineer. “The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) has disregarded countless objections, including those from opposition parties. It’s clear that the bill alters the role of trustees and strips the Waqf Board of its independence, permitting dangerous non-Muslim influence in the Central Waqf Council and various Waqf Boards.”
The amendments, which pave the way for substantial non-Muslim participation in the Waqf Boards, have raised concerns about political interference in religious affairs. Jamaat-e-Islami has expressed particular concern over the appointment of a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to the Waqf Board, fearing that it could lead to direct government control and political manipulation. “This will result in unprecedented interference from the state government in the functioning of the Waqf, which is simply unacceptable,” Engineer added.
The party is now urging secular and opposition parties, including NDA allies, to unite in rejecting the bill. “We call on the opposition to come together and protect the rights of Muslims in this country,” said Professor Engineer.
In addition to the bill, Jamaat-e-Islami expressed deep sorrow over the tragic stampede at the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh. Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary, Syed Tanveer Ahmed, conveyed condolences to the families of the victims, describing the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families in this time of grief,” said Ahmed. “We stand with those who have lost their loved ones and pray for patience and strength. The Centre and the Uttar Pradesh government must take full responsibility for this disaster, and the deficiencies in the arrangements must be rectified immediately.”
Ahmed also criticised the media’s limited ability to provide critical coverage of the event, believing it could have helped address management issues more quickly. “The media’s role in holding authorities accountable was obstructed, which hindered efforts to rectify errors in the management of this major event,” he remarked.
Amid these concerns, Jamaat-e-Islami also discussed the government’s 2025-26 annual budget. While welcoming certain aspects, such as the increase in income tax deduction limits and adjustments designed to benefit the middle class, Professor Engineer expressed mixed reactions. He acknowledged the government’s efforts to control the fiscal deficit, which was maintained at 4.4% of GDP despite significant fiscal loss. “This shows the government’s commitment to controlling debt,” he said.
However, Engineer was critical of the government’s failure to address crucial issues in the budget. “The rising unemployment among youth and the declining GDP growth rate are critical problems that needed more attention,” he said. “The Finance Minister missed an opportunity to revise economic policies that could stimulate growth in both capital and agriculture, benefiting all sections of society.”
Jamaat-e-Islami had submitted proposals to the Finance Ministry ahead of the budget, urging the government to focus on issues such as unemployment, inequality, and backwardness. “We supported moving forward with a demand-side strategy that encourages business development and enhances citizens’ purchasing power,” said Engineer. “Sadly, the government has largely ignored our proposals, and the budget reflects that.”
The party also expressed disappointment over cuts to social welfare programmes, such as MGNREGA, and a lack of focus on minority development. “The absence of a clear policy on the development of minorities and SC/STs will leave many problems of social justice unresolved,” Engineer added.
Finally, Jamaat-e-Islami has called for a shift in economic policy, advocating for a more equitable financial model. “We propose the introduction of an interest-free banking window in conventional banks to create a more inclusive and just financial system,” Engineer concluded.
As political debates surrounding the Bombay Waqf Amendment Bill and the central budget continue, Jamaat-e-Islami remains committed to championing the rights of Muslims and working towards a more just society.
