An influential Indian American Muslim organization has strongly condemned the Modi government’s move to introduce the Waqf Amendment Bill, calling it a direct attack on the Muslim community. It has warned that the bill’s passage could deepen communal divisions and trigger further unrest in India. In an open letter addressed to the Indian prime minister, the US-based American Indian Muslims Association (AIMA)  leader Dr M Qutubuddin of expressed deep concern over the growing polarization and escalating violence against Muslims in India.

The letter stated that India is witnessing increasing communal divisions, with Muslims facing daily atrocities, ridicule, and discrimination. Criticizing the Modi government for introducing the Waqf Amendment Bill without consulting opposition parties or Muslim representatives, the organization questioned why only Muslim endowments were being targeted while similar measures were not taken against Hindu, Sikh, or Christian institutions.

The AIMA asserted that the bill was part of a political strategy to appease the majority vote bank, which, while benefiting the ruling party, was tarnishing India’s global image. Warning of potential unrest, the organization stressed that introducing the Waqf Bill at a time of existing turmoil in the country could lead to further chaos and violence.

It urged the Indian Prime Minister to withdraw the bill to prevent social discord and potential bloodshed. The Indian American Muslim body’s strong condemnation adds to the growing opposition against the proposed amendments to Waqf laws, with Indian political parties and civil society groups also voicing concerns over its implications. Critics argue that the bill is yet another attempt to marginalize Muslims under the current regime, raising fears of institutionalized discrimination.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)