HYDERABAD, April 14, 2025: Asaduddin Owaisi, President of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) and Hyderabad MP, on Sunday declared that the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) will hold a protest meeting against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The event is scheduled for April 19 from 7 pm to 10 pm at Darussalam in Hyderabad.
Addressing the media, Owaisi revealed that the protest will be chaired by AIMPLB president Khalid Saifullah Rahmani. The gathering is expected to draw representatives from various Muslim organizations across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, alongside members of the Muslim Personal Law Board from both states. Discussions with the Waqf Committee are underway, and Owaisi noted that committee members may join if permissions are granted.
“The speakers will highlight how the Waqf Amendment Act jeopardizes Waqf properties and institutions,” Owaisi stated, criticizing the legislation as a threat to the autonomy of Waqf boards. He accused the Modi government of pushing an “unconstitutional” Act, alleging violations of Articles 14, 15, 25, 26, and 29 of the Indian Constitution.
Owaisi also raised concerns over specific provisions in the amendment, particularly Sections 2, 3C, and 3D, which he claimed jeopardize Waqf properties. Citing the Sachar Committee report, he pointed out that 180 Waqf properties remain under the “illegal occupation” of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) due to provisions in the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (ASMR Act).
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The Hyderabad MP further questioned the government’s proposal to include non-Muslims as Waqf Board members, calling it inconsistent with the composition of Hindu, Jain, and Sikh endowment boards, which exclusively comprise members of their respective communities. “Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs should reflect on this,” he remarked, urging the government to reconsider the amendment.
Owaisi dismissed the BJP-led government’s assertion that the Act aims to protect Waqf properties, labeling it a pretext that undermines the rights of Muslim institutions. The April 19 protest is poised to amplify these concerns, with organizers anticipating robust participation from community leaders and stakeholders across the region.
