Waqf Act Amendments Aim to Prevent Land Misuse, Not Target Muslims: Kiren Rijiju

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju clarified that the Waqf Act amendments are meant to correct past land misuse and not target Muslims. Emphasising fairness and transparency, he stated that arbitrary Waqf property claims will now be prevented. Protests continue amid political controversy, but the government defends the move as pro-poor and corrective.

Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju has clarified that the recent amendments to the Waqf Act are not designed to target the Muslim community, but rather to address historical missteps in land administration. Speaking at a press event in Kochi, Rijiju explained that the changes were intended to curb the arbitrary control exercised by Waqf Boards and prevent the unlawful occupation of land under the pretext of religious authority.

Rijiju emphasised that the amendments will eliminate the scope for any unilateral declaration of land as Waqf property, which has been a longstanding issue in several regions. The decision, he said, is part of a broader effort to ensure justice and transparency in land ownership across India. “There is no question of targeting any community. This is about correcting legal loopholes and restoring rightful ownership,” Rijiju said.

His remarks follow a wave of protests across parts of West Bengal and other states, with some demonstrations turning violent. Political tensions have escalated as opposition parties claim the legislation is discriminatory, while the ruling government maintains that the new law will help marginalised sections and end the exploitation of land for personal gain.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also addressed the issue recently, stating that misuse of Waqf land had prevented socio-economic progress within the Muslim community. He argued that properties meant for public welfare had been cornered by a few, forcing underprivileged youths into low-income jobs due to lack of institutional support.

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The Waqf Amendment Bill, passed by Parliament and signed by the President on April 5, continues to trigger debate. However, the Centre insists the move will ultimately dismantle land mafias and promote fair access to property, especially for Dalits, backward classes, and marginalised communities.