Do only Muslim institutions need reform, asks Tarigami

Srinagar, Apr 14: Communist Party of India (Marxist) and MLA Kulgam, Mohamad Yousuf Tarigami on Monday questioned the government’s reform agenda, asking why only Muslim institutions are being targetted.
“If the government wants to reform, then why are Muslim institutions being targeted? Don’t institutions of other faiths need reform too?” he said while addressing a press conference here.
Referring to the party’s 24th All India Party Congress held in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, Tarigami said a political resolution was adopted during the Congress, which included several key points—one of the most discussed being the Waqf (Amendment) Act.
“The current government, taking advantage of their majority, got the bill passed in the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha. Today, it has become law,” he said.
Explaining the amendment of Waqf, the CPI(M) leader said: “People of every faith have institutions and trusts to manage their religious properties. Similarly, Muslims have Waqf, which has been working within a legal framework to manage religious endowments. But now, the government has brought amendments that allow external interference.”
He questioned the intent behind targeting only Waqf: “If reforms are truly needed, why single out Muslim institutions? Institutions of other religions also operate within frameworks. Reform cannot mean undermining an entire community’s autonomy.”
“Positions in Waqf Boards are meant to be filled by people of the faith, as per the law. No one else has the authority to interfere in these matters. But under the new Act, even non-Muslims can interfere, which we see as a direct violation of religious freedom,” he added.
Citing constitutional guarantees, Tarigami said, “The Indian Constitution gives every community the right to establish and manage religious institutions. What is happening now undermines that right.”
He said the CPI(M), during its party congress in Madurai, adopted a resolution condemning the amendment and warning that such interference specifically targets institutions with a deep connection to faith. “This move weakens democracy and the constitutional framework of the country. It’s not just about Muslims—it’s about preserving the rights of all minorities,” he warned.
Appealing to civil society, he said: “We appeal to the public, parliamentarians, legislators, writers and the press to raise their voices. Today, it’s Waqf; tomorrow, it could be any other institution. Before it’s too late, we must act.”
The MLA Kulgam also criticised the lack of discussion in the J&K Legislative Assembly. “Many members demanded a debate on the Waqf issue. I raised the concern as well. But unfortunately, no debate was held. There should have been one, especially when people across the country, particularly in J&K, are concerned,” he said.
Tarigami added that during the recently held state conference in Jammu, a new state committee was formed, and Mohammad Abbas Rather was elected as the State Secretary and has taken charge.