New Delhi– India on Tuesday strongly criticized Pakistan for making “motivated and baseless” remarks regarding the recently enacted Waqf (Amendment) Act, asserting that Pakistan has no standing to comment on India’s internal matters and should instead reflect on its own “abysmal” track record in protecting minority rights.
“We firmly reject the motivated and baseless comments made by Pakistan on the Waqf Amendment Act enacted by the Indian Parliament. Pakistan has no locus standi to comment on an issue that is purely internal to India,” said Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal in response to media queries.
“Pakistan would do better to examine its own dismal record on safeguarding the rights of minorities, rather than preaching to others,” he added.
The legislation in question, formally known as the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Act, 2025, is being hailed as a milestone in Waqf law reform—a process that has evolved from 1913 to 2025 to better utilize Waqf properties for the public good.
“The evolution of Waqf laws in India from 1913 to 2025 reflects a consistent effort to safeguard and manage Waqf assets for societal benefit, while instituting a robust administrative framework. Each reform has aimed to address contemporary challenges without compromising the fundamental purpose of Waqf endowments,” the Ministry of Minority Affairs stated in a recent social media post.
According to the Indian government, the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, represents a critical step toward ensuring greater transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness in Waqf property management.
Amid ongoing misinformation campaigns, several Indian leaders have clarified that the Act does not involve any religious or community bias. They have emphasized that Waqf committees will continue to be led by members of the Muslim community.
“The Waqf Amendment Bill is in the interest of Muslims. It will uplift the economically disadvantaged among them and provide opportunities for self-development,” said BJP national spokesperson and former Union Minister Syed Shahnawaz Hussain.
Drawing parallels with the controversy over the Citizenship Amendment Act, Hussain accused Pakistan of spreading false narratives about the Waqf legislation. “Don’t fall for propaganda… Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to the principle of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (Together with All, Development for All),” he said. (Source: IANS)
