Waqf Properties Are Sacred, Not Real Estate for Legislation Without Consent: Waheed Para
Srinagar, April 7, : People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader Waheed Para on Monday sharply criticized the National Conference-led Jammu and Kashmir administration, accusing it of covertly advancing the BJP’s agenda while compromising on issues vital to Kashmir and the Muslim community.
His remarks came after Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather rejected adjournment motions filed by opposition lawmakers seeking a debate on the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
“When Article 370 and CAA were under judicial review, several states, including ours, passed resolutions to express their dissent. Today, we attempted to do the same in protest against the Waqf Bill, but the Speaker denied us that right. This reflects a double standard—publicly opposing the BJP while quietly enabling its policies on the ground,” Para told reporters.
He further asserted that the government’s unwillingness to challenge the bill revealed its readiness to compromise on sensitive matters related to the region’s identity and Muslim sentiment.
Para also emphasized that Waqf properties are deeply rooted in religious faith and not merely pieces of real estate. “These assets are a sacred legacy left by our ancestors. Treating them as ordinary properties is a grave mistake. Enacting laws affecting the Muslim community without their participation is both undemocratic and disrespectful,” he said.
