Farooq Abdullah Calls for Reconsideration of Waqf (Amendment) Act, Backs Legal Challenge

By A Staff Reporter

Srinagar — National Conference president and former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah has reiterated his party’s opposition to the Waqf (Amendment) Act, calling it unconstitutional and urging the Centre to reconsider the legislation.

Speaking to reporters, Abdullah said, “My party has already made its stance clear that we are against the Waqf Act. This is against the Constitution and it should be reconsidered.”

The Waqf (Amendment) Act has sparked controversy in various regions, with critics arguing that the law gives excessive powers to central bodies and sidelines local or state-level control over Waqf properties — lands and assets dedicated to religious or charitable causes in the Muslim community.

Abdullah expressed support for the legal route being taken by community members to challenge the Act. “Now our community has moved to the Supreme Court and we hope that we will get justice,” he said.

The statement comes amid growing protests and legal scrutiny surrounding the amendments, especially in states with significant Muslim populations. Leaders across party lines, particularly from regional outfits, have voiced concerns over centralization and potential misuse of authority in managing Waqf assets.