Kiren Rijiju Highlights Massive Earnings from Waqf Properties in Rajya Sabha

By A Staff Reporter

New Delhi | Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, while addressing the Rajya Sabha on the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025, shed light on the vast number of Waqf properties in India and their potential revenue. Rijiju stated that the country currently has 8.72 lakh Waqf properties, significantly up from earlier recorded figures.

Citing data from the 2006 Sachar Committee report, he noted that at that time, 4.9 lakh Waqf properties were estimated to generate an annual income of ₹12,000 crore. "You can imagine the income these properties must be generating now," Rijiju remarked, emphasizing the growing economic significance of Waqf assets.

The minister’s statement comes amid discussions on the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025, which aims to bring reforms in the administration, transparency, and utilization of Waqf properties. The bill seeks to ensure better regulation of these assets, address disputes, and streamline governance mechanisms.

His remarks sparked debate among members, with some urging greater accountability and transparency in Waqf board operations. Others stressed the need for equitable utilization of Waqf funds for the upliftment of underprivileged Muslim communities.