New Delhi: Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday dismissed allegations that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, would harm Muslim interests. He asserted that non-Muslims cannot interfere in the Waqf Board’s affairs as its management and beneficiaries would be only Muslims. Kiren Rijiju addressed concerns and criticism surrounding the legislation after introducing the Bill in the Rajya Sabha. He dismissed allegations that the bill would harm Muslim interests and asserted that non-Muslims cannot interfere in the Waqf Board’s affairs as its management, creation, and beneficiaries would remain exclusively Muslims. Refuting claims that the bill is unconstitutional or curtails rights, Kiren Rijiju stated, “I categorically reject all these allegations. Any Muslim who wishes to manage their property through a trust can do so without restrictions.” He explained that the Waqf Board functions similarly to a Charity Commissioner, overseeing whether Waqf properties are managed properly. The bill ensures accountability, transparency, and capacity building within the Waqf Board. He emphasised that proof of ownership would now be required before a property is declared Waqf, eliminating the previous …