Sat Aug 02 18:48:19 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
A panel discussion titled “Save Waqf, Save Constitution” was held, organized by the All India Muslims Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). DMK Rajya Sabha Member P. Wilson criticized the BJP’s handling of the Waqf Act amendments, stating that the 1995 amendments were sufficient. He highlighted the DMK’s opposition to the recent amendments, including their efforts in Parliament and their filing of a case in the Supreme Court. Former Madras High Court judge Justice D. Hariparanthaman compared the amended Waqf Act unfavorably to the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, pointing out discriminatory provisions against donations to Waqfs. Other speakers, including R. Vijayasankar, addressed the media’s role in spreading hate and the lack of Muslim representation in mainstream media. The discussion focused on concerns that the amendments erode the autonomy and rights of the Muslim community regarding Waqf properties.
**News Article:**
**Controversy Erupts Over Waqf Act Amendments; DMK Vows Legal Challenge**
*CHENNAI, August 3, 2025* – A heated debate surrounding recent amendments to the Waqf Act continues to escalate, with the DMK party vowing to challenge the legislation in the Supreme Court. The controversy was the focus of a panel discussion titled “Save Waqf, Save Constitution” organized by the All India Muslims Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) on Saturday.
DMK Rajya Sabha Member P. Wilson delivered a scathing critique of the BJP’s actions, claiming they were “oppressive” and unnecessary. He stated the amendments from 1995 were adequate and accused the BJP of betraying the Muslim community despite the DMK’s opposition to the current changes. “We debated it for 15 hours, and it was passed early in the morning. We voted against it,” Wilson stated.
Former Madras High Court judge Justice D. Hariparanthaman drew comparisons between the Waqf Act and the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, highlighting what he described as discriminatory aspects of the amended Waqf Act. He pointed to Section 104 that requires a donor to be Muslim for a period of five years. “This is the first act that prevents donation. All powers of the Waqf Act are being taken over by the Central government,” Justice D. Hariparanthaman said.
R. Vijayasankar, former Editor of Frontline, addressed a critical issue of representation within the media, highlighting the lack of Muslim representation and accusing some media outlets of fostering an anti-Muslim environment.
Other participants included Advocate A. Arulmozhi, retired IAS officer G. Balachandran, and Rahmathunissa, a member of AIMPLB.
The DMK maintains that the amendments undermine the autonomy and rights of the Muslim community in managing Waqf properties. The upcoming legal challenge in the Supreme Court is expected to be a closely watched development, with potentially significant implications for religious freedom and minority rights in India.
First Piper 