Waqf Bill Seeks to Curb Property Misuse, Says Pralhad Joshi
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Synopsis
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi asserts that the Waqf Amendment Bill addresses widespread favoritism and misuse of Waqf properties. He emphasizes the need for transparency in the Waqf Board's management while countering opposition from the Congress party, alleging that they fear political repercussions.
Key Takeaways
- Waqf (Amendment) Bill introduced to reform the Waqf system.
- Claims of favoritism and misuse of Waqf properties.
- Accusations against Congress for opposing the Bill.
- Need for transparency in Waqf Board management.
- Potential revenue from properly managed Waqf land.
Hubballi, April 5 (NationPress) Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi asserted on Saturday that there is widespread favouritism and misuse of Waqf properties, with numerous instances of encroachment on these assets.
“The Central government has put forth the Waqf (Amendment) Bill following extensive discussions to implement essential reforms in the Waqf system. This initiative is not anti-Muslim. The NDA government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has not introduced this Bill in an unconstitutional manner. The amendment comes after six months of thorough discussions, including the establishment of a Joint Parliamentary Committee,” the Union Minister stated to the media.
He alleged that the Congress party opposes the Bill out of fear of political repercussions.
“Sonia Gandhi does not uphold democratic values. Her ‘prince’, Rahul Gandhi, has previously ripped apart a bill. Such behavior reflects their contempt for democratic norms,” he remarked.
Joshi also suggested that in various regions, even Hindu properties have been incorrectly categorized as Waqf properties.
“The Waqf Board has operated without transparency or accountability. Numerous Muslim residences have been inaccurately designated as Waqf property. Likewise, Hindu-owned properties have been misclassified as well. In old Hubballi, many Muslim homes are registered as Waqf properties. In places like Vijayapura, Haveri, Dharwad, and others, even farmers' lands are labeled as Waqf property. The Bill aims to safeguard the underprivileged and promote social justice after reviewing these issues,” he explained.
Joshi highlighted the necessity for transparency in the management of the Waqf Board. “In Karnataka alone, Waqf land covers approximately 54,000 acres. If managed correctly, as highlighted in the Sachar Committee report, it could yield a revenue of Rs 12,000 crore. Where is that revenue?” he inquired, accusing the Waqf Board of significant misuse.
In response to the suicide of a BJP worker, Joshi remarked, “If FIRs are being lodged merely for social media postings, it illustrates the extent of Congress’ misuse of power. Congress workers have previously made posts against us - did we file FIRs against them?”
