In a major political move, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has strongly opposed the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 proposed by the Central Government. On Thursday, March 27, 2025, Stalin introduced a resolution in the Tamil Nadu Assembly stating that the bill will "destroy the rights of Muslims" and hinder the Waqf Board's power. The resolution was passed unanimously, urging the Centre to withdraw the amendment that is perceived as harmful to the Muslim community.

Stalin's Criticism of the Waqf Amendment Bill

MK Stalin strongly criticized the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, alleging that it is aimed at weakening the rights of Muslims. He expressed concerns that the proposed amendments will hinder the powers of the Waqf Board and curb its autonomy.

"The central government is introducing schemes that undermine state rights, culture, and tradition. India is home to diverse cultures, traditions, and languages, but these actions suggest an intention to take revenge on the states. The Waqf Amendment Bill is against Muslims. The Centre has not considered the welfare of Muslims and their rights," Stalin said while addressing the Assembly.

Stalin further highlighted that two non-Muslim members being included in the Waqf Board under the proposed amendment was a direct attack on religious freedom. He also accused the Union Government of ignoring the sentiments of the Muslim community and warned that the bill would affect the rights of minorities in the country.

DMK and Allies Oppose the Amendment

DMK members in the Joint Action Committee (JAC), including A Raja and MM Abdullah, have vocally opposed the Waqf Amendment Bill. The DMK government has consistently raised concerns over the impact of the amendments on Waqf properties and Muslim interests.

"The Waqf Bill may be tabled anytime in Parliament, and we must oppose it firmly. The amendments will curb the Waqf Board's authority and hurt Muslim rights," Stalin added.

Concerns Over Waqf Board's Authority

The Waqf Board manages properties and assets that belong to the Muslim community for charitable and religious purposes. The proposed amendments include digitisation of records, enhanced audits, and legal mechanisms to recover encroached properties. However, critics argue that the inclusion of non-Muslim members will dilute the power of the Waqf Board and pave the way for state interference in religious matters.

Muslim leaders and community representatives have voiced concerns that the bill may lead to the usurpation of Waqf properties and is against the principles of religious autonomy.

Key Points in the Resolution Passed by Tamil Nadu Assembly

The resolution passed by the Tamil Nadu Assembly highlighted several concerns regarding the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024:

• Preserving Religious Harmony: The resolution emphasized that India’s Constitution guarantees the right to follow one’s religion and that elected governments must protect these rights.

• Negative Impact on Minority Rights: The bill was deemed to have a negative impact on the minority community, particularly Muslims, which necessitated its withdrawal.

• Opposition from Multiple Parties: Several parties, including the DMK, AIADMK, and Muslim organizations, have expressed their discontent over the bill.

Criticism of the Waqf Amendment Bill

The Waqf Act of 1995 was enacted to regulate and manage Waqf properties in India. However, over the years, the Act has faced criticism due to mismanagement, corruption, and encroachments. The Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 proposes several key changes to address these issues, such as:

• Digitisation of Waqf Records: The bill aims to digitise the Waqf properties to prevent fraudulent practices and enhance transparency.

• Enhanced Audits and Transparency: It mandates regular audits to ensure accountability and reduce corruption.

• Reclaiming Illegally Occupied Properties: The bill introduces legal frameworks to reclaim encroached Waqf lands effectively.

Despite these proposed reforms, critics, including MK Stalin and the DMK, believe that the bill’s underlying objective is to undermine the autonomy of the Waqf Board and seize control over Muslim endowments.

Appeal to the Union Government to Withdraw the Bill

The resolution passed by the Tamil Nadu Assembly urges the Union Government to withdraw the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, citing that the proposed changes will adversely impact the Muslim community.

"The Constitution has provided rights for all people to follow their religion. It is the duty of elected governments to protect these rights. The Assembly unanimously insists that the Union Government should recall the Waqf Amendment Bill in 2024 for Waqf Act 1995," the resolution stated.

Nationwide Opposition Against the Waqf Amendment Bill

The Waqf Amendment Bill has faced nationwide opposition, with several political parties and Muslim organizations criticizing the inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf Boards. Critics argue that this move could pave the way for government interference and jeopardize the autonomy of religious institutions.

States like Kerala, Telangana, and West Bengal are also expected to follow Tamil Nadu’s lead and oppose the bill through similar resolutions. The Centre’s move has sparked a political and religious debate across the country, with leaders from multiple communities urging the Union Government to reconsider its stance.

Conclusion: Tamil Nadu Stands Firm Against Waqf Amendment Bill

Tamil Nadu's resolution against the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 marks a significant political development and highlights concerns over the protection of minority rights. The state’s opposition sends a strong message to the Centre, urging it to reconsider the bill that threatens the autonomy of Waqf Boards and Muslim religious institutions.

As the debate over the Waqf Amendment Bill intensifies, all eyes are now on the Union Government's response and the potential impact on state-centre relations in India.

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