Owaisi Criticizes PM Over Waqf Property Comments

AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi, during a discussion on the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of India, strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks about Waqf properties. He invoked Article 26 of the Constitution, emphasizing its provision that grants religious denominations the right to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes.  

Debate Highlights Tensions Over Minority Rights

Owaisi accused the government of attempting to undermine these constitutional safeguards. “Read Article 26,” he stated in Parliament, challenging the Prime Minister’s claim that Waqf properties lack constitutional backing. He added, “Who is teaching the PM? Make him read Article 26. The goal is to snatch away Waqf properties.”  

"PM Must Read Article 26," Says Owaisi

The AIMIM leader alleged that the government is using its majority strength to target Waqf properties, which are essential for religious and charitable purposes. “You want to snatch it away on the basis of your strength,” Owaisi remarked, accusing the government of overreach and raising concerns about the erosion of minority rights as enshrined in the Constitution.  

His comments brought attention to the ongoing debate surrounding Waqf properties and the role of the government in managing them. Waqf boards, responsible for maintaining significant religious and charitable assets, have often been a contentious issue. Owaisi’s remarks serve as a sharp critique of perceived governmental attempts to encroach upon constitutionally protected rights.  

As the nation reflects on 75 years of its Constitution, Owaisi’s intervention highlights the importance of preserving minority rights and ensuring that constitutional provisions are upheld without bias. The debate underscored the significance of protecting institutions that serve religious and charitable purposes, in line with the spirit of ArtDebate Highlights Tensions Over Minority Rightsicle 26.