All India Sufi Board's Haji Arfat Shaikh Supports Waqf Bill, Encourages Muslims to Stay Informed

Mumbai, April 4 (NationPress) BJP leader and President of the All India Sufi Board, Haji Arfat Shaikh, expressed his support for the Waqf (Amendment) Bill on Friday and called upon the Muslim community to not be misled by dissenting voices from the Opposition.

In an interview with IANS, Haji Arfat Shaikh stated, “To begin with, I am in full support of the Central Government and this Bill. The manner in which this Bill was introduced today has been a topic of discussion for several years. Various critics have shared their perspectives on the potential implications of the Bill. However, we have comprehended the Bill as presented.

“While I may not possess extensive knowledge or technical expertise in this domain, the fundamental aspects we grasped demonstrate how the government has worked towards enhancing transparency, which will significantly benefit the general populace, including Muslims.”

Shaikh further asserted that the Bill would create hurdles for corrupt individuals, particularly those who have unlawfully seized Waqf lands valued in lakhs and crores.

“Indeed, those Muslim leaders and Ulemas involved in corrupt practices will find themselves facing challenges. They are already experiencing the pressure. But I urge Indian Muslims, particularly in Maharashtra, to comprehend the broader context,” he added.

Reflecting on his experiences with the Minority Commission, Shaikh mentioned, “I initiated a campaign that spanned all 36 districts of Maharashtra. We uncovered numerous properties — mosques, madrasas, dargahs — that were abandoned, often illegally occupied or exploited for personal gain.

“Despite government initiatives, including during Devendra Fadnavis' Chief Ministership, our community has largely been unable to utilize Waqf lands for educational institutions, hospitals, or other community welfare projects. Instead, some individuals constructed 'Urdu Bhawans' on government property. The core issue has been the mismanagement and corruption surrounding these lands.”

He also remarked, “Numerous trustees have been careless, allowing lands to be leased at a fraction of their true worth. Some plots, valued in lakhs, were leased for as little as five thousand rupees. Therefore, I wish to emphasize that this Bill will promote transparency, exposing such fraudulent activities and holding individuals responsible. The government will not interfere with the land’s religious significance; Waqf land is considered sacred. It cannot be sold or bought, and the government's role is to ensure its proper use.”

Shaikh addressed concerns regarding non-Muslim participation in Waqf matters, asserting, “There is no reason for concern. Hindus, Sikhs, or Christians will not meddle with Muslim Waqf properties. If it is a Sikh trust, only Sikhs will be involved. If it is Christian, only Christians. This is clear.”

In praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shaikh remarked, “The Prime Minister has implemented stringent measures for the benefit of our nation and community. Some individuals, without grasping the reality, label him negatively. However, I encourage Muslims to recognize the positive transformations, such as the reform of triple talaq, which has empowered numerous women.”

“Those opposing this Bill are often the same individuals engaged in corrupt activities. This Bill will limit such misconduct, ensuring that the revenues from Waqf properties reach the underprivileged and needy. I implore all Muslims not to be misled,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha ratified the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, early on Friday with 128 votes in favor and 95 against, following a rigorous debate. The Lok Sabha had approved the Bill a day earlier after nearly 12 hours of discussions.