PDP Leader Questions National Conference’s Commitment to Kashmiri Muslims
Srinagar, 15 April 2025: A Political Storm Over Waqf Amendment Act
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti has launched a scathing attack on the National Conference (NC), accusing the ruling party of betraying Kashmiri Muslims by remaining silent on the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Act. Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Iltija alleged that the NC has a “tacit understanding” with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and is prioritizing power over principles.
Key Allegations
- Failure to Bring a Resolution:
- Iltija criticized NC Chief Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for not introducing a resolution against the Waqf Act in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly.
- She pointed out that states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have brought resolutions against the Act, questioning why the NC has not followed suit.
- Tacit Understanding with BJP:
- The PDP leader accused the NC of having an “understanding” with the BJP, claiming that the party deliberately avoided discussing the Waqf Act to maintain political alliances.
- “They’ve thrown Kashmiri Muslims under the bus,” Iltija remarked, adding that the NC is normalizing the disempowerment of Muslims in the region.
- Sub-Judice Excuse:
- Iltija dismissed the NC’s justification that the matter is sub-judice, pointing out that the party continues to discuss Article 370 despite its legal status.
- Corruption Allegations:
- She also accused the NC of corruption during its tenure, particularly in the management of Auqaf properties, and credited PDP founder Mufti Mohammad Sayeed for introducing transparency.
Political Context
The Waqf (Amendment) Act has been a contentious issue in Jammu and Kashmir, with critics arguing that it undermines the autonomy of Muslim religious institutions. Iltija’s remarks come amid growing dissatisfaction among opposition parties over the NC’s handling of the Assembly session and its perceived reluctance to address Muslim-centric issues.
Looking Ahead
As the debate over the Waqf Act intensifies, the focus remains on how the NC will respond to these allegations. Iltija’s criticism underscores the broader political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir, where parties are vying to position themselves as defenders of the region’s identity and interests.
