Srinagar, Feb 15: Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, on Saturday assured that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill will not take away Muslim Waqf properties, refuting rumours circulating on social media.
Speaking to reporters after visiting the Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar, Rijiju dismissed the misinformation surrounding the bill, emphasising that the amendments are intended to enhance the management of Waqf properties for the benefit of the Muslim community.
“Some people are spreading false rumours about the bill and creating unnecessary fear. The aim of the amendments is to ensure transparency in the management of Waqf properties, many of which are underutilized. It is disheartening to see people begging outside these properties when they could be better managed for the community’s welfare,” Rijiju said.
He also highlighted that the bill has garnered support from political leaders across the country, including Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, as well as several Muslim Members of Parliament. “Thousands of Muslims, including women, have welcomed this bill. It is about proper management, not taking away properties,” the minister added.
Earlier, addressing press conference at Srinagar, Rijiju said that the Union Budget 2025-26 lays the foundation for India to become a developed nation by 2047, with significant relief for the middle class, farmers, and small businesses. He said that the budget is not just about numbers but about real change in people’s lives.
He said that under the new budget, tax relief has been extended significantly, allowing persons earning between ₹7 lakh to ₹12 lakh annually to be exempt from tax. He said that this is an unprecedented move in India’s history, ensuring that middle-class families get real financial relief.
He said that this historic tax exemption is a bold step to strengthen the financial stability of salaried persons.
The tax deductions and relief on loans have also been introduced to make life easier for the salaried class, he said.
Rijiju further said that a parliamentary select committee has been formed to simplify the income tax system further. He congratulated the middle class for receiving this much-needed relief.
He also that Jammu and Kashmir has received special attention in this budget, particularly in sectors like agriculture, handicrafts, and small businesses. He added that Kashmiri products, including apples, handlooms, and handicrafts, will now be promoted globally through a special mission which will help local artisans and small businesses expand their reach and increase profits.
He said that the government is committed to supporting Kashmiri artisans by organizing a major fair in the next few months where they can showcase and sell their products without worrying about expenses. He said that similar fairs have been held in Delhi, where travel, accommodation, and food costs were covered by the government.
The minister said that farmers in Jammu and Kashmir will benefit greatly from this budget, as the government has introduced new measures to help them access credit and sell their produce in larger markets.
He said that institutions like NAFED and NCCF will play a key role in ensuring better marketing opportunities for farmers.
The minister also said that infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir has been a priority for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He added that road and rail connectivity between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley has improved significantly, making travel easier and boosting economic opportunities.
