Pune: Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has firmly addressed rumors regarding the Waqf Board properties, stating that a proposed reform bill aims to put an end to the illegal and inappropriate use of these lands.

The bill’s purpose is to ensure that Waqf properties are utilized in a manner that benefits the Muslim community.

Speaking at a media interaction following a "Youth Connect" event at Modern College, Rijiju dispelled claims that the government intends to seize lands belonging to the Muslim community.

He emphasized that this misinformation needs to stop immediately and urged people not to be misled by false narratives.

Rijiju explained that several Muslim organizations have welcomed the reforms being proposed in the Waqf Act. These amendments are currently under the consideration of a Joint Parliamentary Committee.

The minister highlighted the overwhelming public response to the bill, noting that over 1.25 crore objections and suggestions have been submitted.

This, he said, marks a global record in terms of public engagement with legislative reform. Rijiju assured that every concern raised would be taken into account before moving forward.

Confidence in Mahayuti’s Success

In the context of Maharashtra, Rijiju expressed his confidence in the Mahayuti (Grand Alliance) government, both at the state and central levels.

He predicted that the people of Maharashtra would continue to support the alliance, given its track record of governance. He also warned against attempts to divide the state along caste or communal lines, calling such moves inappropriate and detrimental to progress.