New Delhi, April 17 (H.S.): Congress has taken a strong stance against the Waqf Act-2025, labeling it a retaliatory and constitutionally dubious initiative rather than one of genuine reform. Senior Congress leaders Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Imran Pratapgarhi criticized the government for framing this act as a means of good governance, emphasizing that it constitutes a severe attack on minority rights and freedoms.

During a press conference at Congress headquarters, Singhvi argued that the Waqf Act is not merely an administrative measure, but an ideological onslaught aimed at undermining the self-determination and autonomy of religious minorities. He stated that the act represents a policy of total control over religious institutions, challenging established judicial principles under the guise of efficiency.

Singhvi highlighted that Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution safeguard individuals’ rights to practice their religion and manage religious institutions. He stressed that the Waqf Act lacks provisions designed to protect public order, health, and morality, which are outlined as limits to these rights. Referring to a landmark ruling from the 1950s and 60s, Singhvi noted that any attempt to strip autonomy from specific institutions is unconstitutional. He condemned the act as an effort not to improve governance but to infiltrate and eliminate institutional independence.

Meanwhile, Pratapgarhi expressed support for the Supreme Court’s recent stay on the act, noting that previously dismissed suggestions during parliamentary discussions have now garnered judicial acknowledgment. Congress is determined to challenge this legislation both in the streets and in Parliament.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar