Why Waqf properties not used for education, medical treatment and income generation for poor Muslims: Kiren Rijiju

ANI April 2, 2025 187 views

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has introduced a groundbreaking Waqf Amendment Bill in Lok Sabha targeting comprehensive development of Muslim communities. The legislation aims to transform management of Waqf properties by introducing technological transparency and broader representation. Rijiju highlighted the potential of 8.72 lakh Waqf properties to improve socio-economic conditions for Muslims nationwide. The bill includes provisions for digital tracking, mandatory women's participation, and enhanced administrative efficiency.

"If these 8.72 lakh Waqf properties were managed properly, it would transform the destiny of the entire country" - Kiren Rijiju
New Delhi, April 2: Introducing the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, in Lok Sabha, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday questioned why Waqf properties haven't been used for the development of the nation and Muslims.

Key Points

1

Waqf properties doubled from 4.9 to 8.72 lakh

2

Bill ensures broader representation including women

3

Centralized digital database for transparency

Rijiju said that India has the highest number of Waqf properties in the world and questioned why they haven't been used for the education, medical treatment, skill development, and income generation of poor Muslims.

"When our country has the largest Waqf property in the world, why hasn't it been used for the education, medical treatment, skill development, and income generation of poor Muslims? Why has no progress been made in this regard so far?" Rijiju said in Lok Sabha.

Rijiju also questioned the oppositionits objections to the PM Modi-led government working for the betterment of Muslims

"If this government, under the leadership of PM Modi, is working for the betterment of poor Muslims, then why is there an objection?" Rijiju asked.

Rijiju also noted that the number of Waqf properties has doubled in the country, and their income has also increased.

"Today, the total Waqf property has increased from 4.9 lakh to 8.72 lakh in our country. If these 8.72 lakh Waqf properties were managed properly, it would not only improve the lives of Muslims but also transform the destiny of the entire country." Rijiu said

"On our own WAMSI portal, we have reviewed the records. The Sachar Committee, which was formed in 2006 has also provided detailed information on this matter. In 2006, there were 4.9 lakh Waqf properties, and the total income from them was Rs 163 crore, and after making changes in 2013, the income has increased to Rs 166 crores," he added.

Rijiju clarified that under the new amendment Waqf board will have a broader representation and women will be compulsory member of the board.

"Now Shia, Sunni, Bohra, backward Muslims, women, and expert Non-Muslims will also be there in Waqf Board. Let me elaborate in detail. I'll give my own example. Suppose I am not a Muslim but I am Minority Affairs Minister. Then I become Chairman of the Central Waqf Council. Despite my position, there can be a maximum of 4 Non-Muslim members in the Council, and among them, 2 women members are compulsory" Rijiju said.

He said that under this amendment Waqf board will have a centralised database, no secrecy, and improved efficiency.

"We have worked to improve efficiency by utilizing technology. A centralized database and a digital portal will be implemented, ensuring that no one can secretly create Waqf properties under the cover of darkness. Proper registration, tracking, monitoring, and compliance mechanisms have been established. There is also a provision to rectify manual errors. The bill includes measures to address bureaucratic delays, and finally, proper auditing is essential. We are entrusting the responsibility of auditing to the state governments," Rijiju said.

Along with the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, Rijiju also moved the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, for consideration and passing in the Lok Sabha.

The bill was earlier presented in the Lok Sabha on August of last year and a Joint Parliamentary Committee, headed by BJP member Jagdambika Pal, examined it.

The bill seeks to amend Act of 1995. The Bill seeks to improve the administration and management of waqf properties in India. It aims to overcome the shortcomings of the previous act and enhance the efficiency of Waqf boards, improving the registration process, and increasing the role of technology in managing waqf records.

Reader Comments

A
Asif K.
Finally someone is asking the right questions! These properties could transform lives if managed properly. Education and healthcare should be top priorities. Hope this amendment brings real change 🤲
P
Priya M.
Interesting perspective. I didn't know India had so many Waqf properties. Transparency in management is crucial - the digital portal idea sounds promising.
R
Rahul S.
While I appreciate the intent, I'm concerned about implementation. Previous governments also talked about Waqf reforms but little changed. Hope this isn't just political rhetoric before elections.
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Fatima A.
As a Muslim woman, I'm happy to see compulsory women representation in the board! This is long overdue. Our community needs more women in decision-making roles 💪
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Suresh T.
The income numbers are shocking - 166 crores from 8+ lakh properties? That's barely 2000 per property annually. Clearly there's massive mismanagement happening.
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Zubair H.
I run an NGO working with Muslim youth. If even 10% of these properties were used for skill development centers, we could create thousands of jobs. Hope this bill delivers on its promises!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Waqf Amendment Bill Kiren Rijiju Muslim Community Development Lok Sabha PM Modi Minority Affairs
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