Muslim MPs back Waqf Bill, protest under pressure: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju

Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, stated on Saturday that some Muslim MPs privately support the proposed Waqf Amendment Bill but are protesting due to pressure from their respective parties.

Rijiju, who was in Srinagar to meet business representatives and other stakeholders regarding the budget, clarified that the NDA's intent behind the bill is transparent. "There is no intention to seize property from Muslims and transfer it to others. Our country functions under the law and constitution," he emphasized.The Waqf Amendment Bill aims to streamline the management of Waqf properties, some of which are tied up in legal disputes. Rijiju explained that although India possesses the world's largest amount of Waqf property, much of it remains unused, especially for the benefit of women and children in need.Rijiju also affirmed that both NDA allies, Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar, support the passage of the bill. He mentioned that numerous Muslim community members and women have praised the initiative, with Muslim MPs expressing their support privately, though publicly protesting due to party pressure.

Regarding Jammu & Kashmir, Rijiju emphasised the government's focus on the region, noting that Prime Minister Modi has directed ministers to monitor progress at the grassroots level. He expressed confidence that J&K will soon emerge as one of the most prosperous and developed regions.

On the issue of recent Anti-Corruption Bureau raids involving two officials from the Srinagar Smart City Project, Rijiju made it clear that any verified act of corruption would be met with strict action. He reiterated the central government's commitment to zero tolerance for corruption.