HT Bureau
ITANAGAR, May 6: In a landmark initiative under the Waqf Sudhar Janjagaran Abhiyan, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Arunachal Pradesh, on Tuesday hosted the Chief Minister Sambad at the Chief Minister’s residence in Itanagar to raise awareness on the reforms introduced through the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the importance of the amended Act in ensuring transparency, accountability, and justice in the management of Waqf properties across the nation. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi”s visionary leadership, which led to the strengthening of the 1995 Waqf Act to address long-standing issues related to mismanagement and misuse of Waqf resources.
While noting that the direct impact of the Act in Arunachal Pradesh may be limited due to the state”s demographic composition, CM Khandu highlighted the historic grievances of the Muslim community, including lack of transparency and gender inclusivity in Waqf governance. He urged the Muslim citizens of the state to engage actively with the reforms and seek clarity through dialogue with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who introduced the Amendment Bill in Parliament.
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Reiterating his commitment to communal harmony and inclusive governance, CM Khandu assured the Muslim community of full cooperation and support in ensuring peace, development, and equal opportunity for all communities.
Delivering the keynote address, Tayek Goi, Convener of the Waqf Sudhar Janjagaran Abhiyan, described the event as “historic” and underscored the urgency of Waqf reforms. Citing the Sachar Committee Report (2006) and recent data from the Waqf Assets Management System of India (WASMI), Goi revealed massive gaps between the number of Waqf properties and their actual revenue generation.
He alleged that 60% of Waqf properties were illegally occupied during past administrations and pointed out the drastic underutilization of Waqf assets, which were originally meant to benefit underprivileged Muslims, particularly minority women. Goi hailed the 2025 amendments for introducing women”s representation on Waqf Boards and ensuring better governance mechanisms.
The event also witnessed participation from Teli Amita, member of the Abhiyan, State BJP President Kaling Moyong, Media Co-Convener Nima Sangey, and members from the Muslim community, who were felicitated during the programme.
The gathering concluded with a renewed call for transparent management of Waqf properties, enhanced community engagement, and continued efforts toward inclusive growth in Arunachal Pradesh.
