Danish Ansari: Waqf Bill to Enhance Muslim Development
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Synopsis
Uttar Pradesh Minority Affairs Minister Danish Ansari believes the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, will significantly improve the development opportunities for Muslims. He highlights the potential benefits for the community, including better management of Waqf properties and enhanced representation of Pasmanda Muslims in the Waqf Board.
Key Takeaways
- Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025 aims for Muslim development.
- Proper auditing and representation for Pasmanda Muslims.
- Addressing the mismanagement of Waqf properties.
- Potential revenue generation of Rs 1,250 crore annually.
- Support for educational and health initiatives.
Lucknow, April 3 (NationPress) The Minority Affairs Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Danish Ansari, asserted on Thursday that the enactment of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, will pave the way for significant advancements in the lives of Muslims.
In an interview with IANS, he highlighted the beneficial transformations the Bill will bring, as Muslims celebrated its approval in the Lok Sabha by distributing sweets.
He mentioned that should this Bill become law, it will facilitate thorough auditing of the Waqf Board, eliminate encroachments, and ensure representation of Pasmanda Muslims within the board, ultimately aiding the community.
"This legislation was essential at this moment and will put an end to the occupation of Waqf properties, which are considered divine assets, by individuals who misuse them for personal gain," the Minister added.
In a direct criticism of opposing leaders, including All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Akbaruddin Owaisi, who termed the day of the Waqf Amendment Bill's passage a 'Black Day' and unconstitutional, Ansari stated that such individuals are blind to the progress of Pasmanda Muslims.
Claiming there has been "mismanagement" of Waqf assets, he remarked: "The total value of these properties nationwide stands at Rs 1.25 lakh crore, which should ideally yield over Rs 1,250 crore annually. However, it currently generates merely Rs 150 crore in revenue. The remaining Rs 1,100 crore is being siphoned off by unknown parties."
"The correct revenue allocation could facilitate the establishment of more than 800 colleges each year for Muslim youth, 300 hospitals, and numerous skill development centers," he noted.
Providing statistics on Waqf properties in select districts of Uttar Pradesh, Ansari stated: "Each district in Uttar Pradesh possesses numerous Waqf properties, including Bijnor (4697), Balrampur (4248), Moradabad (3295), Lucknow (3072), Muzaffarnagar (3606), Aligarh (1400), and Kasganj (575)."
Ansari encouraged Muslims in the region to investigate how many of these properties have been converted into charitable institutions.
Applauding the amendment, he stated: "It was crucial for a Viksit Bharat. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recognized this and dedicated it to the upliftment of Muslims. The Modi government is adhering to Allah's will, while certain factions attempt to mislead Muslims."
