NC’s Tanvir Sadiq seeks urgent Waqf Bill debate, calls for cross-party support

Srinagar, Apr 03: JKNC Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq has written to the Speaker of the J&K Assembly, urging that his Private Member Resolution against the Waqf Amendment Bill be considered on April 7.

In the letter addressed to the speaker and copied to all MLAs, Sadiq emphasized that the bill, recently passed in Parliament, poses a serious threat to the independence of Waqf boards and religious institutions in Muslim-majority Jammu and Kashmir.

Highlighting concerns over excessive government control, arbitrary reclassification of Waqf properties, and dilution of board authority, he asserted that the amendments violate constitutional rights and religious autonomy. “This House has a duty to reflect the concerns of the people. Failing to oppose this legislation would mean accepting an erosion of our religious and constitutional rights,” he stated in the letter. 

Sadiq has urged the Speaker to prioritize the resolution for discussion, allowing a focused debate before its formal adoption.

Sadiq has also sought the support of all MLAs, regardless of party lines, to oppose the amendments.