Kiren Rijiju Responds to Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council's Request for Support on Waqf Amendment Bill

  • March 31, 2025, 3:30 p.m.

Union Minister of Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, has responded positively to the Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council (KCBC), which recently issued a request to all MPs from Kerala to support the Waqf Amendment Bill. Rijiju lauded the letter sent by the KCBC, calling it a “very important statement” and underscoring the significance of the request made by the religious body.

The Waqf Amendment Bill, which is currently under discussion, has received support from several organizations across different communities, including the KCBC. The bill aims to address issues surrounding the management of Waqf properties, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in their administration. Rijiju emphasized that the Bill is designed primarily to benefit marginalized groups, particularly poor Muslims, children, and women, by safeguarding their interests and ensuring the proper use of Waqf assets.

In his statement, Rijiju said, "We must understand that the Bill is basically in the interest of the poor Muslims, children, and women, and also that the properties of the Waqf are managed transparently. We ensure the welfare of the common people."

He further clarified that the Bill’s goal is to curb the illegal encroachment on Waqf properties, an issue that has long been a concern in many parts of India. "Who are those who are opposing this Bill? There are a few powerful people who have encroached upon the Waqf properties," Rijiju remarked, suggesting that the opposition to the Bill stems from those with vested interests in the current mismanagement of such properties.

While Rijiju acknowledged the right of individuals and organizations to criticize government policies and legislation, he stressed that such criticism must be grounded in substance and meaningful argument. "It's everyone's right to criticize things, but criticism must have some substance in it," he asserted.

The Waqf Amendment Bill has sparked widespread debate, with advocates calling it a necessary step for reforming the administration of Waqf properties, which are meant to benefit the underprivileged. However, critics argue that the Bill could potentially be misused for political and financial gains.

The Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council's letter urging Kerala MPs to back the Bill reflects a growing support base for the legislative changes, especially within the church and religious communities. It remains to be seen how the Bill will progress in Parliament, as lawmakers from various political backgrounds weigh the pros and cons of its proposed provisions.

As the discussions continue, the government remains firm in its commitment to ensuring that the Waqf Amendment Bill will ultimately serve the interests of the common people, particularly the marginalized communities it is intended to protect.

Author : Rajdhani Delhi Representative

Rajdhani delhi representative

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