AIMIM chief and MP Asaduddin Owaisi has strongly opposed the proposed Waqf Bill, warning that it could endanger the ownership of mosques and other Waqf properties. Speaking at a protest at Jantar Mantar, where the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) and other Muslim organizations gathered to voice their concerns, Owaisi cautioned that the bill could lead to disputes over mosques.
Expressing his apprehensions, Owaisi stated, "If tomorrow, anyone goes and says that this is not a masjid and the Collector launches an inquiry, then the masjid will not be our property till the inquiry is not over…"
VIDEO | Here's what AIMIM chief and MP Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) said on AIMPLB and other Muslim organisations protesting against the Waqf Bill at Jantar Mantar.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 17, 2025
"If tomorrow, anyone goes and says that this is not a masjid and Collector launches an inquiry then the masjid… pic.twitter.com/Ooxjj1ycvj
His remarks reflect growing concerns within the Muslim community, which sees the proposed Waqf Bill as an attempt to weaken the legal standing of Waqf properties, potentially paving the way for their takeover or legal disputes. The AIMPLB and several other organizations argue that the bill will empower government authorities to question the legitimacy of religious sites, putting mosques and other Waqf-owned assets at risk.
The protests at Jantar Mantar saw participation from various Muslim leaders and activists, who demanded that the government withdraw the proposed amendments and safeguard the autonomy of Waqf properties. Many believe the bill could lead to unnecessary litigations, allowing authorities to freeze Waqf lands during investigations, leaving religious institutions vulnerable to legal battles.
As the controversy intensifies, Owaisi’s remarks have further ignited political and community-wide debates on the implications of the bill. The government is yet to respond to these concerns, but opposition leaders are expected to raise the issue in Parliament in the coming days.
