Syro-Malabar Church Urges JPC To Amend Waqf Act Amid Property Disputes

The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in Kerala has requested the Joint Parliamentary Committee to amend the Waqf Act of 1995. Archbishop Andrews Thazhath highlighted that Christian properties in Ernakulam have been unlawfully claimed by the Waqf Board, threatening around 600 families. The Church urges action based on humanitarian and constitutional grounds.

The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in Kerala has formally requested the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to consider amendments to the Waqf Act of 1995, according to sources on Tuesday.

In a letter dated September 10, Archbishop Andrews Thazhath emphasized that numerous long-held Christian properties in Cherai and Munambam in Ernakulam have been unlawfully claimed by the Waqf Board, resulting in protracted legal battles and the displacement of rightful owners, affecting around 600 families.

''These families are from the impoverished fishing community. Even a Catholic parish church, a convent, and a dispensary face evacuation threats by the Waqf Board,'' a source stated.

The Church has pleaded with the JPC to address the ''tragic situation'' of these communities and others across India who risk losing their homes due to ''unjust and inhuman claims'' by the Waqf Board.

The Public Affairs Commission has urged the committee to consider amendments to the Waqf Act of 1995 based on humanitarian and constitutional principles.

Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 to the Lok Sabha on August 8, which was thereafter referred to the JPC, despite significant objections from opposition parties who argued that the Bill is discriminatory against the Muslim community.

The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, a significant Eastern Catholic Church with around five million believers, has actively sought these amendments.

(With inputs from agencies.)