Clerics true custodian of religious properties: Waheed Parra

Srinagar, Oct 24: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislator Waheed Parra on Friday said that party president Mehbooba Mufti has decided that PDP legislators will cast their votes in favour of the National Conference (NC) candidates in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections.

Parra said the decision was taken after the National Conference assured its support to two key legislations in the Assembly — the Land Bill and the Daily Wagers Regularization Bill. He said the understanding between the two parties was aimed at safeguarding the interests of common people and ensuring that the long-pending bills are passed without political obstruction.

“The PDP has decided to vote for the NC candidates as the party leadership was assured of support for the Land and Daily Wagers Bills in the Assembly,” Parra said.

He also expressed support for the role of clerics in managing religious assets, stating that “clerics have every right to be the custodians of Waqf properties.” Parra emphasized that mosques should remain under the supervision of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, describing him as a spiritual authority respected across Kashmir.

On the arrest of Doda MLA Mehraj Malik, Parra termed it “illegal and politically motivated,” asserting that the PDP stands firmly against his detention and will continue to demand his unconditional release. [KNT]