MMU flays sealing of Mirwaiz’s residence in IIOJK, raises alarm over Waqf Act
Srinagar: In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU) has strongly condemned the sealing of the residence of senior APHC leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, and the prevention of a key religious meeting meant to discuss the implications of the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Act.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Mirwaiz Umer Farooq led MMU delegation with Jagdambika Pal, Chairman of Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on proposed Waqf Amendment Bill on January 24, 2025
The MMU, which was to deliberate on the new law’s impact on Waqf institutions at its scheduled meeting on Thursday, said the gathering could not take place after authorities sealed the Mirwaiz’s residence at Rajouri Kadal and barred entry. Religious scholars and ulema from Jammu, Kashmir, Leh, and Kargil who had travelled to attend the meeting were denied access.
Calling the government’s actions deeply condemnable, the MMU announced that its resolution, expressing concern over the new Waqf law, will now be read out in all mosques, shrines, and imambargahs across occupied Jammu and Kashmir during Friday prayers.
The MMU said the new legislation undermines the traditional and religious character of Waqf management in India. It flagged concerns about the diminishing authority of Muslim-led Waqf Boards, the inclusion of non-Muslim officials in their functioning, and the transfer of key decision-making powers to district collectors.
The Anjuman of Auqaf Jamia Masjid also reacted strongly to the continued house detention of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq for the second consecutive Friday.
In a statement, it said the undemocratic and hostile approach of the authorities towards the Mirwaiz is causing deep anguish to the Muslims of Kashmir and restricting his peaceful religious and official duties.
The MMU reaffirmed its full support to the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) and expressed its commitment to support all lawful and peaceful efforts to safeguard religious institutions and endowments.
Meanwhile, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq himself posted a statement on X, saying, “Another Friday, another house arrest and the authorities’ Jamia Masjid phobia continues.
