Utilize waqf properties for empowerment of Muslims: Naqvi

Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs expressed confidence that Central Waqf Council will work towards connecting waqf properties with development of Muslim community. He said even after new Waqf Act, several states have not been able to utilize waqf properties for socio-economic-educational empowerment of Muslim community.

Several waqf properties have been encroached by “waqf mafia”. There is a need for a campaign to ensure usage of waqf for whom it is meant. Naqvi said this while delivering valedictory address at National Conference of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of State Waqf Boards that began in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Naqvi said that new Waqf Act, 2013 has been improved but there is need for further improvement. Steps towards further improving Waqf Acts will be taken after suggestions from states, common people, educational institutes and religious organizations. Naqvi said that after this new Waqf Act, responsibility of Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards has increased.