Emphasis on Transparent Use of Waqf Properties, Resolution of Kashi- Mathura Disputes, and Muslim Empowerment
New Delhi, – The All India Executive Meeting of the Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM) was held at Tagore Hall, Rajghat, Delhi, with the participation of over 100 office-bearers from across the country. Speaking on the key decisions made in the meeting, National Convener and Media In-charge Shahid Sayeed stated, “Serious discussions were held on crucial issues such as the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, resolution of disputed sites like Kashi-Mathura, communal harmony, prevention of religious conversions, the need for equal civil rights within the Muslim community, and the transparent use of Waqf properties.”
He further said, “Additionally, the launch of a ‘De-addiction Campaign’ to keep Muslim youth away from drugs and the establishment of an ‘Imdad Fund’ to support the poor, widows, orphans, and the needy were also declared. Significant viewpoints were shared on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC).”
Prominent Figures in the Executive Meeting
The meeting, chaired by MRM’s mentor Indresh Kumar, witnessed the presence of key figures, including National Convener Mohammad Afzal, former Jharkhand minister Dr. Shahid Akhtar, former Rajasthan minister Abu Bakar Naqvi, former Madhya Pradesh minister S.K. Muddin, former Uttar Pradesh minister Mazahir Khan, former Uttarakhand minister Bilal Ur Rahman, Assam Warehouse Corporation Director Dr. Shalini Ali, Managing Director of Medicant Cancer Hospital Dr. Majid Talikoti, Uttarakhand Waqf Board member Hasan Noori, senior MRM officials Girish Juyal, Syed Raza Hussain Rizvi, Dr. Tahir Hussain, Mohammad Islam, Reshma Hussain, Irfan Ali Peerzada, Shahid Sayeed, Mohammad Ilyas, Hafiz Sabreen, Imran Chaudhary, Thakur Raja Rais, Faiz Khan, Altamash Bihari, Tusharkant, Alok Chaturvedi, Kallu Ansari, Dadu Khan, Shakir Hussain, Mohammad Farooq Khan, and several other senior leaders.
UCC to Bring Justice and Empowerment for Muslims
During the meeting, MRM’s mentor Indresh Kumar made a strong statement on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), saying, “A Uniform Civil Code is the need of the hour in India. Different laws for different communities create discrimination and inequality in society. If there is one country, one constitution, and one judicial system, then there should also be a single civil code. UCC will ensure equal rights for all religions and guarantee justice and dignity for Muslim women.”
He added, “Islam spread in India not by the sword but through the love of Sufi saints and Indian culture. However, some people have exploited it for their selfish motives by promoting extremism and oppression. Practices like triple talaq, halala, and polygamy are obstacles to the progress of the Muslim community. Now is the time to move towards reforms and embrace equal civil rights.”
Emphasis on National Unity
Indresh Kumar further stated, “India’s soul lies in ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (The world is one family), where every religion and community enjoys equal rights. Islam in India was not accepted through force but because of the Sufi traditions. The fundamental message of Islam is peace and humanity, but some individuals are distorting it for their selfish gains.”
Speaking firmly on the misuse of Waqf properties, he said, “The rights given to the Waqf Board by the Government of India are meant for public welfare, not for personal gains of a few individuals. Waqf properties are not personal estates but should be used for the upliftment of the Muslim community and the welfare of poor Muslims. Illegal encroachments and corruption in Waqf lands must be stopped. These assets should be utilized for education, healthcare, employment, and social service.”
On resolving disputes related to religious sites, he remarked, “The disputes of Kashi and Mathura can also be resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding. Today’s Muslims should not be burdened with the actions of historical invaders like Babur and Aurangzeb. We must acknowledge historical mistakes and move towards justice.”
He also issued a strict warning against religious conversions and communalism, stating, “Forced or lured religious conversions have no place in India. Every religion—Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Christianity—must be respected, but those using conversions as a political weapon must be exposed. Indian Muslims can no longer be deceived. They seek development and brotherhood, not hatred.”
Views of Prominent Intellectuals
The executive meeting unanimously decided that the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 is in the best interest of Indian Muslims.
National Convener Md. Afzal said, “Muslims now realize how they were misled. Those who secretly sold Waqf properties and engaged in corruption must be held accountable.”
Former Jharkhand minister Dr. Shahid Akhtar emphasized, “India’s problems cannot be solved through conflict but through dialogue. The Kashi-Mathura disputes must also be resolved with harmony and respect. The Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 is a major step taken with good intentions, and everyone should support it.”
Former Rajasthan minister Abu Bakar Naqvi stated, “Waqf properties are meant for the poor and social welfare. We must ensure accountability for those controlling these assets.”
Assam Warehouse Corporation Director Dr. Shalini Ali added, “Women must have equal rights in society. The proper use of Waqf properties should be ensured, and they must be directed towards the development of the Muslim community.” She also praised the De-addiction Campaign and Imdad Fund, saying, “These initiatives are timely and commendable.”
Launch of De-addiction Campaign and Imdad Fund
The meeting also announced the launch of a De-addiction Campaign to protect Muslim youth from substance abuse and the establishment of an Imdad Fund to support the underprivileged.
De-addiction Campaign:
Awareness drives to keep youth away from drugs, alcohol, and other intoxicants. Establishment of rehabilitation centers and moral education based on Islamic values. Community involvement at the grassroots level to combat drug abuse.
Imdad Fund: Financial aid for poor Muslims, widows, orphans, and economically weaker families. Assistance in education, healthcare, and employment.
Concluding the meeting, Indresh Kumar stated, “The goal of the Muslim Rashtriya Manch is to promote brotherhood in society and encourage Muslims to actively contribute to nation- building. We must work together in this direction.” The forum will conduct awareness campaigns across the country on these issues, guiding the Muslim community towards the right path.
