Share your story and shine at JK Monitor!đ Welcome to JK Monitor, where every story matters and every achievement is celebrated! We invite you to share the remarkable journey of your life and showcase your accomplishments to the world. Join our exclusive interviews that honor exceptional individuals just like you. SRINAGAR: Hakeem Muhammad Yaseen, President of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) and former minister, has vehemently opposed the proposed amendments to the Waqf Act, terming them as a direct assault on the religious rights of Muslims and an infringement upon their faith. He asserted that such amendments are unjustified and go against the secular ethos of the Indian Constitution.
"India is a secular country, and the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion to all its citizens. Muslims from Jammu and Kashmir and across the country have made immense sacrifices for India's independence, and the government must respect their rights and aspirations," PDF leader said. Hakeem Yaseen expressed deep concern over the ruling governmentâs claims of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas," highlighting that such moves only serve to create division instead of fostering national unity.
He questioned the rationale behind the selective targeting of Muslim religious institutions while other religious communities enjoy autonomy in managing their affairs. "If Sikh, Hindu, and Christian religious institutions enjoy autonomy, why are exclusive laws being framed to regulate Muslim institutions? This is blatant discrimination and interference in the religious affairs of Muslims. The Bill should be reconsidered in the spirit of fairness and justice," he said.
The senior leader did not mince words in his criticism, calling the Bill a serious attack on the Indian Constitution. "Through this Bill, the government aims to dilute constitutional rights, defame minority communities, divide Indian society, and disenfranchise minorities. Their double-engine governments have even gone to the extent of restricting people from offering namaz in public spaces," he pointed out.
Hakeem Yaseen also warned that any move to interfere with religious autonomy could have serious repercussions. He urged the central government to withdraw the proposed amendments and respect the religious autonomy of all communities. He emphasized that such unilateral decisions without proper consultations would only deepen the existing trust deficit between the government and minority communities.
"India thrives on its diversity and pluralism. Any attempt to disrupt this harmony will only weaken the country. The government must reconsider its stance and engage with all stakeholders before making such significant changes," he asserted. The former minister called upon political parties, religious scholars, and civil society organizations to come forward and oppose the proposed amendments collectively. He reiterated that protecting the rights of religious institutions is crucial for maintaining the social fabric of the nation and ensuring equal treatment of all communities.
