Morung Express News
Dimapur | April 12
The Muslim Council Dimapur (MCD) has termed the passing of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 an act of intrusion by the state into religious affairs. “We feel that it is an intrusion on the minority community. The Government of India may have passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill (into an Act), but it is not acceptable to us,” said MCD President, Ahidur Rehman at a press conference in Dimapur on April 12.
In Islamic tradition, a ‘Waqf’ is a charitable or religious donation made by a Muslim for the benefit of the community, dedicated for pious or charitable purposes. A permanent endowment, such a property cannot be sold, gifted, or inherited.
While the amendment would not affect the Muslim community in Nagaland, Rehman said that it will affect their brethren in other parts of the country. He added that there is no Waqf property in Nagaland.
Introducing transparency in the management of Waqf Boards has been the government’s alleged intention in amending the Waqf Act. The amendment includes a provision for including non-Muslims in managerial positions in the Waqf Boards. Rehman however questioned the logic as to how someone with hardly an idea of Islamic practices be given managerial roles.
He welcomed the aspect of transparency but questioned if including non-Muslims into the Waqf Boards would influence greater accountability. Instead of intruding into religious affairs, he held that the government should come up with a common guideline for all. “If you have to make a rule, make it common. Why only pick one particular community? The amendment has to be revoked and appeal every right thinking society to support us in our appeal,” he said.
In solidarity with fellow Muslims across the country, he said that the MDC was planning to submit a memorandum to the Nagaland Governor and Chief Minister expressing their displeasure.
Several organisations have resorted to legal recourse challenging the constitutionality of the amendment. MCD Executive Member, Ata Tapadar informed that the Supreme Court is likely going to list the petitions against the amendment for hearing on April 16. He expressed hope justice will be served.
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