New Delhi [India], March 26 (HBTV): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has criticised the opposition for allegedly spreading misinformation regarding the BJP's intentions concerning Masjids and Waqf properties.
In an exclusive interview, the Chief Minister questioned the opposition’s motives, asking how much land they intend to take over in the name of Waqf and what welfare measures they have undertaken using these properties.
Yogi Adityanath alleged that Waqf properties have been misused for personal gain, with some being sold to multiple buyers, resulting in disputes.
‘What will the BJP do by taking over the Masjids? I think they (the opposition) are trying to mislead. In the name of Waqf, how much land will you take over? Secondly, have they done any welfare in the name of Waqf? You can't even name one. Look, they have misused that property for their personal selfishness. It has been sold at any cost. What is the situation today? They have sold one property to many people. Now there's a dispute because of it,’ Adityanath said.
He emphasised that the BJP aims to free Waqf properties from encroachment and misuse and ensure they are utilised for community welfare. The party has been advocating for greater transparency and accountability in the management of these properties, which are meant to serve the Muslim community.
Adityanath voiced his support for the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, stating that it is essential for the benefit of both the country and the Muslim community.
‘The JPC has requested that the Waqf Amendment be made a necessity today, and it should move forward in a timely manner. I think it will be for the benefit of the country and also for the benefit of Muslims,’ he said.
He also warned that the implementation of the amendment could lead to issues for individuals who have settled on Waqf properties or invested money in them, potentially resulting in financial losses.
‘It will cause all kinds of problems in the future—for the people who have settled down and for the people who have given money. Because all their money will be lost,’ he added.
Adityanath questioned the Waqf Board’s authority to acquire land, alleging that it has misused its power to blackmail governments. He criticised the board’s practices, stating that they have made unjustified claims over properties and public land.
‘They used to look for any property and blackmail the governments. In the name of Waqf, they have taken all kinds of outrageous decisions—especially Waqf, who says that this land is theirs and then it belongs to them. Which country is this? Who has given you this power? Will you take over any property? Will you take over any place? Will you take over any public land? So this cannot happen,’ Adityanath said.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has opposed the bill, calling it ‘unconstitutional’ and describing it as an attempt by the government to take over Muslim properties, including Masjids.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, seeks to address these concerns by introducing reforms such as digitisation, enhanced audits, improved transparency, and legal mechanisms to reclaim illegally occupied properties. The proposed amendment aims to ensure that Waqf assets are used for their intended purposes, benefiting both the Muslim community and the nation.
(ANI)