Waqf Consultation: Odisha CM ready to address doubts, if any

Asserting that the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 is "just and purposeful", Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has urged all communities to bring forth any doubts they may have so they can be clarified and resolved.

Majhi made these remarks while addressing a consultation programme on the new Waqf Act, attended by over 250 delegates from various religions and districts of Odisha, held on Thursday evening.

"There are a lot of misconceptions surrounding the Act. However, the provisions therein are just and purposeful. If you have any suggestions, efforts will be made to resolve them," Majhi said, adding that the Act is intended for the welfare of poor and helpless minorities.

He further stated that the Odisha government is open to discussion on the law and welcomes suggestions from all communities. “I am always ready to listen to you. Everyone should work together to build a prosperous Odisha. Regardless of caste and religion, we are all Odias,” he added.

CM Emphasises Inclusive Dialogue and Broad Consultations Behind the Law

The consultation programme, organised by the Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Caste Development, Minorities and Backwards Classes Welfare Department, saw delegates raise various concerns and queries about the new legislation.

Responding to these concerns, the Chief Minister said that before the law was enacted, a Joint Parliamentary Committee held consultations with 284 stakeholders from different religious and social institutions. In addition, five minority commissions were also consulted.

He explained that the amended legislation was thoroughly debated and passed in both Houses of Parliament, correcting the “one-sided nature” of the original law.

“Waqf property should be used only for public benefit,” Majhi asserted. “The amendment to the Act emphasises proper management and direction of the property.”

New Provisions Aim to Protect Marginalised Groups and Ensure Speedy Justice

Majhi highlighted that the amended Act protects the rights of women and backward-class Muslims, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to justice and equality for Muslim women.

The new law includes provisions for diverse representation, transparent management, and a right to appeal in the High Court within 90 days of any decision. District collectors have also been entrusted with the responsibility to adjudicate disputes related to Waqf properties.

“I assure all that the Odisha government will protect the interests of all communities during the implementation of this law. We will continue local-level discussions and ensure a fair and transparent process in resolving property disputes,” Majhi said.

The event was also attended by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari and Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Caste Development, Minority and Backwards Classes Welfare Minister Nityanand Gand.

(With PTI Inputs)