Yogi Adityanath Questions Opposition’s Stance on Waqf Properties

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has strongly criticized opposition parties over their stance on Waqf properties, accusing them of spreading misinformation regarding the government’s intentions. He questioned why opposition leaders were defensive about Waqf properties and whether they had been misused over the years.

In a recent statement, Adityanath directly addressed claims that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was planning to take over Masjids and Waqf properties. “What will the BJP do by taking over mosques? I think they are trying to mislead people. In the name of Waqf, how much land will you take over?” he remarked. His comments were aimed at countering allegations that the government was encroaching on Muslim religious sites.

Adityanath also raised concerns about the misuse of Waqf properties, stating that such lands had often been exploited for personal gains rather than for community welfare. He pointed out that many Waqf properties had been sold to multiple buyers, leading to legal disputes and irregularities. “Look at the situation today. Many of these properties have been sold multiple times, causing disputes,” he said.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, arguing that it was necessary to bring transparency and accountability to the management of Waqf properties. He expressed support for legal changes that would prevent the misuse of these lands and ensure they are used for the intended purposes. “The amendment is needed to make sure that Waqf properties are used for community welfare and not for personal interests,” he added.

Opposition leaders, including AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, have criticized the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, alleging that it is an attempt by the government to interfere with Muslim religious institutions. However, Adityanath dismissed these concerns, stating that the bill was in the best interests of the nation and the Muslim community itself.

He also addressed concerns about individuals who have settled on Waqf properties or invested in them, assuring that the government would work to resolve such issues without creating unnecessary problems for those affected.

In conclusion, Yogi Adityanath has positioned the BJP as a party that seeks to bring fairness and transparency to Waqf property management while accusing the opposition of misleading the public. His remarks have sparked fresh debates on the issue, with both sides continuing to clash over the future of Waqf properties in India.