New Delhi [India]: The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly descended into chaos on Monday as members of the National Conference (NC) and its allies protested vehemently against the enactment of the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025. The disruption intensified after Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather rejected an adjournment motion sought by the opposition to discuss the controversial amendments.
Opposition Rises Against Waqf Bill
As the session commenced, NC and allied MLAs demanded a debate on the recent changes made to the Waqf Act. They expressed deep concerns over the bill’s implications, accusing the government of undermining constitutional values and imposing undue financial burdens on citizens. However, Speaker Rather ruled that the matter could not be discussed under an adjournment motion since it is currently sub judice.
“As per rules, no matter which is sub-judice can be brought up for adjournment. Since this issue is in the Supreme Court and I have got a copy of it, the rule clearly says that we cannot discuss through an adjournment motion,” stated Speaker Rather.
NC MLA Tanvir Sadiq moved the adjournment motion, triggering a wave of protests as NC MLAs attempted to approach the well—only to be stopped by Marshalls. Chants of “Ban karo, ban karo, Waqf bill ko ban karo” echoed through the chamber.
Strong Accusations and Opposition from Multiple Sides
Congress MLA Irfan Hafeez Lone leveled severe allegations against the government, stating:
“It is a violation of the Constitution, democracy, and rule of law… Numbers do not matter in a democracy. They should have taken us in their confidence and respected our emotions… You are brazenly violating rule of law, federalism, and secularism. This is a matter of serious concern. We will agitate for India to be free of such an ideology.”
Adding to the dissent, the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), not aligned with the NC, joined the protest. PDP leader Waheed Para criticized the NC for what he termed as a “fixed match,” accusing the Jammu and Kashmir government of compromising on critical issues affecting Kashmir and its Muslim community.
“When Article 370 and CAA were in the court, we brought a resolution, and many states brought it. Today, we want to register our protest against the Waqf Bill, but unfortunately, the Speaker rejected the resolution. They are playing a fixed match,” Para said.
Legislative Journey of the Waqf Amendment Bill
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was enacted after President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent on April 5. The bill, which aims to modernize the administration of Waqf properties across India, was passed by both houses of Parliament after extensive debate:
- The Rajya Sabha passed the bill with 128 votes in favor and 95 against.
- The Lok Sabha cleared the bill following a lengthy discussion, with 288 votes in favor and 232 opposing.
Key provisions of the bill include:
- Improving the registration process and management of Waqf properties.
- Incorporating technology for more efficient operations of Waqf boards.
- Repealing the Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923 to overcome previous shortcomings.
- The bill also revises the Waqf Act of 1995, based on recommendations from a Joint Parliamentary Committee.
The unfolding events in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly reflect deep divisions over the Waqf Amendment Bill, with the opposition decrying the government’s handling of issues that touch upon constitutional rights and religious sensitivities. The heated debates are likely to continue as stakeholders push for further clarification on the bill’s implications for the management of Waqf properties and the broader social fabric of the region.
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