Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir), April 14: National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah has criticized the recently passed Waqf Amendment Act, claiming it violates the Constitution. Abdullah welcomed the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Speaker’s decision to disallow a discussion on the amended law, citing that the matter is currently under the Supreme Court’s consideration.
“This Bill is against the Constitution. The Speaker made the right call by not permitting a debate on the issue while it’s pending before the Supreme Court. We can only deliberate on it once the verdict is out,” Abdullah stated. He also criticized the opposition in the Assembly, saying their stance lacked constructive criticism and existed solely to oppose.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill was tabled in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on April 2 and 3, respectively, and passed in both Houses. It became law after receiving presidential assent on April 5.
Separately, Abdullah addressed the Saudi Arabian government’s recent decision to temporarily suspend the issuance of short-term visas—including tourist, business, and family visit visas—to citizens from 14 countries, including India. He appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to step in and hold discussions with Saudi authorities to reconsider the suspension.
“I appeal to the Prime Minister to talk to the Saudi leadership and urge them not to reduce our Hajj quota. This is not just about pilgrimage, it also concerns employment opportunities. I’ll ask Omar (Jammu and Kashmir CM) to write to the PM on this matter,” he said.
The visa suspension, announced ahead of the upcoming Hajj season, affects countries including India, Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Bangladesh, among others. The Saudi government stated the move is aimed at better managing the influx of travelers during the holy period.