Kochi (Kerala) [India], April 15 (ANI): Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday defended the Waqf Amendment Act, emphasizing that the law will provide “justice” to everyone, and noted that the entire Muslim community should not be blamed for the actions of a few Muslim leaders who have occupied Waqf properties.
“I was already aware of the Munambam case. I have seen the suffering of the 604 families who have been facing difficulties here for so many years… The Waqf Amendment Act, which we brought to solve their problem, has also been passed; this will help a lot in the solution. I have also assured them that we will help them overcome their difficulty… Some Muslim leaders have occupied Waqf properties, we cannot blame the entire Muslim community for this,” Rijiju said in a statement to the media.
He explained that some individuals had taken advantage of Waqf properties, depriving the poor, women, and even fellow Muslims of their rightful benefits. The Minister reiterated that the Waqf Amendment Act is aimed at facilitating justice for everyone, ensuring fair access to these properties.
Rijiju further clarified that the amendment is not targeted at Muslims, despite some narratives claiming that the central government is acting against the community. He stated, “Land in India is a very ‘precious’ thing, and if we lose it, then everything is lost.” He stressed the importance of protecting land ownership and ensuring that no one can “forcefully and unilaterally take away someone’s land.”
The Minister also emphasized that the government introduced these amendments to correct past mistakes and provide justice, particularly with regard to the unprecedented powers granted to Waqf institutions under previous laws.
Following the passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill in Parliament, protests erupted across the country, including violent clashes in West Bengal’s Murshidabad and Jangipur regions. The violence led to the deaths of three people and several vehicles being torched. Central security forces were deployed in the area to restore order.
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, came into force on April 8, and has sparked considerable controversy. Several organizations, including political leaders and advocacy groups, have approached the Supreme Court raising concerns over the law’s implications.
Among those who have petitioned the court are All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) MP Asaduddin Owaisi, Congress MPs Mohammad Jawed and Imran Pratapgarhi, AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan, and Samajwadi Party MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq, as well as other political and religious bodies.
About The Author
