Kochi: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju addressed a press conference in Kochi, asserting that the recent amendment to the Waqf Act is not targeted against the Muslim community. Rijiju emphasized that the Centre is correcting a longstanding legal flaw, and dismissed allegations that the amendment is aimed at any particular religious group.
Rijiju pointed out that some groups are trying to spread misinformation, creating the false impression that the government is acting against Muslims. “This is not a legal amendment targeting any section,” he said. “If the law had not been amended, there could have been a situation where any land could be arbitrarily declared as Waqf land.”
Referring to the recent controversy in Munambam, the minister assured that such incidents will not be repeated across the country. “We will ensure justice for the people of Munambam,” he added, calling on the Kerala government to act responsibly. Rijiju urged the District Collector to instruct the Survey Commissioner to re-examine all related procedures and ensure fairness.
The minister criticized both the LDF and UDF alliances, warning them not to engage in vote bank politics. He asserted that no community, including Muslims, should be used as a vote bank, and stressed that justice should prevail above political interests.
Rijiju also acknowledged that the legal battle in Munambam might continue, as the matter is currently under court consideration. He said that with the amendment, the powers and structure of the Waqf Tribunal have been altered, allowing citizens to approach higher courts if tribunal rulings are unfavorable.
Echoing Rijiju’s sentiments, BJP state president Rajiv Chandrasekhar said the Kerala government of attempting to deny constitutional rights to Munambam residents. He questioned the decision of the Indian Union Muslim League, a UDF ally, for approaching the Supreme Court against the Waqf Act amendment.
The BJP leadership reiterated that the amendment seeks to prevent misuse of land under the Waqf label and to protect citizens’ rights across communities.
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