Muslim Community Members Allege Political Manipulation Over Waqf Reforms
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Synopsis
On April 22 in Mumbai, Muslim community members voiced concerns that political maneuvering is taking place to secure votes regarding Waqf reforms. They emphasized the positive impacts of the reforms on their community, highlighting the government's commitment to aiding the disadvantaged.
Key Takeaways
- Waqf reforms aimed at benefiting the poor Muslims.
- Criticism of political exploitation regarding reforms.
- Union Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasizes government commitment.
- Public support for the reforms highlighted.
- Waqf assets to be used for community welfare.
Mumbai, April 22 (NationPress) Members of the Muslim community asserted on Tuesday that certain individuals have begun to engage in political maneuvers to secure votes concerning the Waqf reforms.
“The underprivileged Muslims relying on stalls and performing odd jobs will gain from the Waqf land. This scenario is not about governmental actions; instead, individuals are engaging in politics merely to acquire votes. The marginalized Muslim community recognizes that the reforms will be crucial and beneficial for them,” stated a community member to IANS, who participated in the ‘Waqf Reform Public Awareness Campaign’ in Mumbai, organized by Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju.
Another participant remarked to IANS that this “historic” reform will assist the impoverished Muslims.
“The Union Minister briefed us on the reforms within the Waqf (Amendment) Act. Now, ordinary Muslims will reap the benefits from these reforms. The Waqf Board and its assets will now be directed towards the needy members of the community,” the participant voiced to IANS.
Criticizing those opposing the reforms, he stated, “Many individuals lack adequate housing and educational resources. These people are making baseless claims for their political advantage, fearing the loss of their existing support.”
During his speech at the event, the Union Minister referred to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill as a “revolutionary” measure aimed at assisting poor Muslims and curtailing the “misuse” and “illegal occupation” of Waqf properties throughout India.
“The Waqf (Amendment) Act is part of the Modi government’s commitment to working for the poor,” the minister expressed.
The outreach event witnessed enthusiastic engagement from the public, many of whom praised the Modi government’s reforms and regarded the amendment as a “historic” move.
Additionally, in discussions with reporters after engaging with citizens during the ‘Waqf Reform Public Awareness Campaign’ in Mumbai, Rijiju highlighted the vast expanse of Waqf properties in India and underscored the urgent necessity for reforms to ensure their appropriate usage.
“The two primary goals of amending the Waqf Act were to aid the underprivileged and to prevent the misuse and plundering of these properties,” he stated.
He asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government is devoted to empowering marginalized communities, adding, “The populace of India has granted PM Modi a third term because we prioritize the welfare of the poor, and this amendment is part of that initiative.”
Strongly opposing the resistance to the reforms, Rijiju condemned certain organizations and political factions for “misleading” the Muslim community.
“Some leaders are deceiving the public. They assert that the government aims to seize religious land or mosques. This is untrue. This nation operates under the Constitution. Congress and Communist parties have misled Muslims for years,” he remarked.
“We are not here to take anything away from anyone. We are here to guarantee that those in need receive their fair share,” the minister added.
Describing it as a transformative action, Rijiju asserted that the Act would benefit all segments within the Muslim community, including Bohras, Shias, Sunnis, Pashmandas, and others who have historically lacked access to Waqf assets.
