ITANAGAR, May 1: In a landmark initiative under the banner of Waqf Sudhar Janjagaran Abhiyan, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Arunachal Pradesh, hosted the Chief Minister Sambadon Waqf Sudhar Janjagaran Abhiyan at the Chief Minister’s Residence in Itanagar today. The event served as a platform to inform and engage citizens on the transformative reforms brought about through the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu, addressing the gathering, spoke with great clarity and conviction about the far-reaching benefits of the amended Waqf Act. He commended the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under whose guidance the 1995 Waqf Act was strengthened to bring about transparency, justice, and better governance in the management of community resources.
While acknowledging that the Act may not have a substantial impact in Arunachal Pradesh due to its demographic context, the Chief Minister highlighted the deep concerns raised over the years by the Muslim community across the nation—concerns rooted in misuse, mismanagement, and lack of accountability. He emphasized that the earlier version of the Act contained arbitrary provisions that often led to injustice.
CM Khandu expressed gratitude to the Central Government for its sincere efforts in correcting past anomalies and restoring faith in public systems. He pointed out that institutions meant for community welfare were unfortunately politicized in previous regimes, and alleged that during the Congress tenure, lands meant for the benefit of underprivileged Muslim citizens were misused—a grave injustice that the new law seeks to rectify.
He urged members of the Muslim community in Arunachal Pradesh to come forward and fully understand the benefits of this reform. He encouraged them to meet Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju—who had introduced the Waqf Amendment Bill in Parliament at his convenience in Itanagar, along with  Tayek Goi, Convener of the Waqf Sudhar Janjagaran Abhiyan, and his dedicated team.
CM Khandu reiterated his unwavering commitment to communal harmony, equity, and good governance. He assured the Muslim community in the state of his full support and cooperation in ensuring peace and security for all, adding that Arunachal Pradesh stands united in the spirit of inclusive development and national progress.
Tayek Goi, Convenor of the Waqt Sudhar Janjagaran Abhiyan, delivered a detailed introductory speech during a key event attended by Chief Minister Pema Khandu and members of the Muslim community. Goi described the gathering as historic, emphasizing its importance in fostering inclusive dialogue and reform.
In his address, Goi shed light on the historical role and current challenges of the Waqf Board and charitable trusts, which were originally established for the welfare of the Muslim community. He pointed out that despite their intended purpose, minorities—particularly women—have long been deprived of their due rights and benefits.
Goi strongly criticized the past mismanagement of the Waqf Board, especially under the Congress regime, citing findings from the Sachar Committee Report (2006). According to the report, while over four lakh Waqf properties were registered, they generated only Rs 164 crore annually, despite having the potential to yield up to Rs 12,000 crore.
He further referenced updated figures from the Waqf Assets Management System of India (WASMI), which shows 8,72,320 properties currently registered. He emphasized that the potential annual revenue now far exceeds previous estimates, underlining the urgent need for transparent and effective governance.
Goi alleged that 60% of Waqf Board properties had been illegally occupied and misused under previous administrations. Commending the Centre for introducing the Waqf Act 2025, he praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his commitment to modernizing Waqf governance, ensuring equitable use of community assets, and protecting the rights of rightful owners.
He also welcomed amendments made through the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), noting that women—previously excluded—will now have representation in the Waqf Board. Goi praised Chief Minister Pema Khandu for his inclusive and dynamic leadership, particularly in engaging with all sections of society. Teli Amita Member Waqf Sudhar Janjagaran Abhiyan welcome the dignitaries besides Kaling Moyong State President, Nima SAngey Co-Convener Media Department and members of Waqf Sudhar Janjagaran Abhiyan also attended the programe.
Earlier in the event, Chief Minister Pema Khandu and State BJP President Kaling Moyong felicitated invitees and representatives of the Muslim community from various mosques in the Itanagar Capital Region.  

---

Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

<< Back to News List