New Delhi, April 19, 2025 — Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has accused the central government of stoking communal tension by bringing up the issue of “Waqf by user” just as the Supreme Court is hearing challenges related to the Waqf Act. He alleged that the move is an intentional attempt to provoke disputes over religious endowment properties, particularly those under Muslim custodianship.
Addressing the press, Kharge claimed that the ruling BJP is targeting Waqf institutions to divide communities and shift attention from key national issues like unemployment, inflation, and corruption. “This is part of a larger agenda. By unnecessarily raking up Waqf matters, the government wants to turn public focus away from their failures,” he said.
His remarks come at a time when the Supreme Court has raised serious questions regarding Waqf properties recognized on the basis of user history — particularly those that may have been in public or shared use for decades. The court questioned whether such classifications would be acceptable if roles were reversed, asking whether Muslims would be allowed in Hindu trusts under similar circumstances.
The matter has sparked widespread debate. Critics argue that historical ambiguity in property ownership is being used to dispute legitimate religious endowments, while supporters of the government’s move claim it’s necessary to re-evaluate property rights and bring transparency.
Kharge also took aim at the Enforcement Directorate’s summons to Congress leaders Sonia and Rahul Gandhi in connection with the National Herald case, calling it another instance of the Centre weaponizing investigative agencies to intimidate the opposition.
As the legal battle over the Waqf issue continues in court, political rhetoric around religious institutions is gaining momentum — especially with elections looming.
