Accused of "religious targeting," India passes law expanding government control over Muslim endowments

This came according to a report in the Hindustan Times, citing a statement from the Indian Ministry of Minority Affairs regarding a draft law on Islamic Waqf, which was introduced to amend the Waqf Act of 1995.

The statement indicated that the draft law, which was approved by Parliament, was ratified by President Droppa de Moro on April 5 and will enter into force on April 8.

Several Islamic institutions and opposition MPs considered the law a "direct attack on Muslims and their rights," and filed an appeal with the Constitutional Court.

The Islamic Waqf Bill was passed by the Indian Parliament on April 3, followed by the Senate the following day, and was formally adopted after the President's assent on April 5.

By amending the 1995 Waqf Law, the central government is attempting to expand its control over Muslim-owned Waqf properties.

The draft law grants the government the right to inspect and interfere in the property and lands of Islamic endowments active in religious, educational, or charitable affairs.