Srinagar, Apr 6: Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, on Saturday said the government is committed to stopping the misuse of Waqf properties across India and ensuring that these assets are used for the welfare of poor Muslims, especially women and marginalized communities.
Speaking at the 3rd Lok Samvardhan Parv held at the Convocation Ground of the University of Kashmir, Rijiju said that lakhs of crores worth of Waqf assets have been misused over the years, denying the rightful beneficiaries the support they deserve. “In the name of Waqf, many people have taken advantage, but it was never meant for personal gain. The property belongs to the poor and must be used for their upliftment. We are working to correct this misuse,” he said.
Rijiju emphasized that Waqf properties are a public trust meant for charitable, educational, and social welfare purposes. He asserted that the government’s efforts to reform Waqf management are not politically motivated but aimed at serving the interests of common Muslims. “Some are trying to misrepresent this work, but our purpose is clear. We are not targeting anyone. We are safeguarding what belongs to the people,” he added, as per the KNS correspondent.
He also stated that the government will continue working on this front until transparency and proper utilization of Waqf properties are ensured.
Beyond Waqf reforms, Rijiju used the platform to highlight the Centre’s push for economic empowerment in Kashmir through cultural and artisan promotion. “This time, we brought the Lok Samvardhan Parv to Kashmir instead of Delhi. Kashmir is full of talent – in art, culture, craftsmanship. Our goal is to give employment, promote traditional skills, and connect artisans to the national market,” he said.
Calling the youth and talent of Kashmir the pride of the region, he emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of inclusive development and national integration. “The market across the country is huge, and we are here to help Kashmiri artisans find their place in it,” Rijiju noted.
The Lok Samvardhan Parv is an initiative to celebrate local culture, showcase traditional crafts, and promote self-reliance. Its first two editions were held in Delhi, and this is the first time the event was held in Jammu and Kashmir. (KNS)
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