Kerala Assembly passes resolution for Waqf Amendment Bill withdrawal

The Kerala Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a resolution urging the central government to withdraw the 2024 Waqf Amendment Bill, citing concerns over federal principles and democratic values.

In Short

• Kerala Assembly unanimously passed a resolution against the Waqf Amendment Bill.
• Cabinet minister criticised the bill for undermining state rights and secular principles.
• Congress-led Opposition UDF suggested amendments, but supported the resolution.

The Kerala Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a resolution on Monday, October 14, urging the central government to withdraw the controversial 2024 Waqf Amendment Bill. Minister for Waqf, Haj pilgrimage, and sports, V Abdurahiman, presented the resolution, stating that the bill undermines the federal principles enshrined in the Constitution.

Abdurahiman argued that the bill infringes on state rights regarding Waqf matters, effectively weakening the authority of Waqf boards and tribunals, which are tasked with overseeing Waqf properties. “This bill not only violates the secular principles outlined in the Constitution but also threatens democratic values by replacing elected representatives with a board of nominated members and a nominated chairman,” he said.

The minister emphasised that fundamental rights, including the freedom of belief, secularism, federalism, and democratic principles, should not be compromised. He noted that the bill includes provisions that contradict the very foundation of the Constitution and called for its immediate withdrawal by the central government.

The resolution garnered support from the opposition Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), which proposed several amendments to the resolution, some of which were accepted during discussions.

This bipartisan agreement highlights the assembly’s collective stance against the proposed bill, reflecting broader concerns about federal overreach and the preservation of democratic processes in state governance.

The call for withdrawal of the Waqf Amendment Bill underscores ongoing tensions between state and central authorities regarding religious governance and the management of Waqf properties in India.