Tue Sep 16 23:18:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten news article:
**Summary:**
Kashmir’s chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, representing the Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), has expressed concerns regarding the Supreme Court’s interim order on the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. While acknowledging the positive aspects of the stay on certain provisions, he argues that significant constitutional and religious issues remain unresolved. He emphasizes the threat posed to long-standing mosques, shrines, and community institutions due to the abolition of the “Waqf by user” principle and the transfer of survey powers. The MMU asserts that the amendment weakens Muslim control over Waqf properties and violates constitutional rights, urging the Supreme Court for a final hearing to protect these rights and restore the original protections of the Waqf Act.
**News Article:**
**Kashmir Cleric Voices Concerns Over Waqf Act Despite Supreme Court Stay**
**Srinagar – September 17, 2025** – Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Kashmir’s chief cleric and head of the Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), expressed apprehension yesterday regarding the Supreme Court’s interim order on the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. While acknowledging the court’s decision to stay certain provisions, Farooq stated that fundamental constitutional and religious concerns remain unaddressed.
The MMU fears the new law threatens historic Muslim institutions, particularly with the removal of the “Waqf by user” principle. This principle has long protected mosques, shrines, and graveyards operating as Waqf based on continuous use, even without formal deeds.
“The mandatory requirement of a Waqf deed disregards historical realities where documents were lost or never existed, and risks stripping these properties of their sacred status,” Farooq stated in a press release. He also criticized the transfer of survey powers from independent commissioners to district collectors, arguing it compromises neutrality and grants the state excessive control over religious trusts.
The MMU maintains the amendment weakens Muslim control over Waqf properties, violating constitutional rights guaranteeing religious freedom. They argue that the act singles out the Muslim community for interference in internal religious management.
“Encroachers may be legitimized, while genuine community institutions will suffer,” the MMU warned.
The organization is now urging the Supreme Court to expedite a final hearing on the matter, calling for the restoration of the original protections of the Waqf Act. They are imploring the government to preserve and protect Waqf endowments for the future benefit of the community, rather than undermining their sanctity. The MMU said it views the issue as a test of the government’s commitment to protecting the religious rights of Muslims in India.
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