Rijiju Accuses Opposition of Misleading Muslims Over Waqf Bill

Amid ongoing nationwide protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju sharply criticized opposition parties on March 31, 2025, for allegedly spreading false information among Muslims. The minister’s remarks come as tensions rise over the controversial legislation.

The Central government is gearing up to table the bill in Parliament on April 2, with confidence in its approval. According to government sources, efforts are underway to secure backing from allies to ensure smooth passage.

Rijiju dismissed claims that the bill violates the Constitution, noting that Waqf regulations have been in place since before India’s independence. “How can something that’s existed for so long suddenly be illegal?” he questioned, challenging the opposition’s narrative.

He further accused opposition leaders of stoking fear by telling Muslims that the government intends to take over their graveyards and mosques. Rijiju called this “harmful propaganda” aimed at misleading vulnerable communities.

Drawing parallels to past controversies, the minister urged the public to call out those spreading lies. “These are the same people who claimed the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) would strip Muslims of their rights,” he said, referencing earlier misinformation campaigns.

In an Eid message, Rijiju expressed pride in India’s treatment of minorities, stating they enjoy unparalleled safety and freedom under the current government.

Also read: Waqf Bill Likely To Be Presented In Lok Sabha On April 2

The minister underscored the extensive consultations behind the bill, welcoming support from the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council, which has urged Kerala MPs to back the legislation. He encouraged political parties to engage constructively in parliamentary debates.

Rijiju stressed that the bill isn’t aimed at any specific group, rejecting divisive claims as propaganda. Citing the struggles of families in Munambam, Kerala, to safeguard their properties, he called on Kerala MPs to support the bill for the greater good, rather than indulging in “appeasement politics.”

Introduced on July 28, 2024, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill proposes key reforms, including adding non-Muslims and Muslim women to Waqf boards and curbing the boards’ power to designate properties as “waqf.” A 31-member Joint Parliamentary Committee was formed in August to scrutinize the legislation.