Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, on Tuesday arrived at Munambam and assured the people of the area that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has the solution to their long-pending land problems.
Upon arrival at the sea-facing town, Rijiju first went to the location where people have been holding a sit-in protest for the last 185 days, seeking rightful ownership of their ancestral land.
Speaking to the collected multitude, the minister declared, "I would like to remind you that India, the largest democracy in the world, is governed by a leader who knows very well the difficulties and challenges that people go through. I can assure you that Prime Minister Modi knows the solution to all your woes," sending the crowd into thunderous applause.
Rijiju highlighted the need for equality in law, specifically citing new amendments to the Waqf Act.
As a secular country, our laws should be fair and protect everyone equally. Unfortunately, the Waqf Act had granted special powers to the Waqf Board to acquire land, which we have amended," he added.
He said that in reforming what he termed as the "draconian provisions" of the Act, the BJP was criticized and accused of being anti-Muslim.
"People are suffering from arbitrary Waqf rules. We are not against Islam. Our intention is to provide justice. When Waqf Amendment Act was tabled, I informed all the Members of Parliament that people are suffering because of arbitrary Waqf rules. We will never give up till your lands return to you," Rijiju asserted.
Criticism of opposition parties, he said that the parties such as CPI-M and Congress have utilized the Waqf Board for political purposes, while the BJP stands for equality for everyone.
"You can give your own land, not another person's. We are not interfering with the Muslim community—we are only ensuring Waqf properties are managed properly," the minister clarified.
Rijiju assured the residents of Munambam that the new Act would protect their interests. He further explained that the government will shortly frame rules that are necessary, and once the legislative procedure is complete, instructions would be given to the state administration to take action in the favor of the affected residents.
"All of you will be able to take back your ancestral lands. The long suffering you've had to undergo is coming to an end. I understand your agony, and on behalf of Prime Minister Modi and the country, I am here to provide solace and ensure that you won't have to undergo this again," he said.
Prior to visiting Munambam, the minister also convened with Archbishop Joseph Kalathiparambil at the headquarters of Varapuzha Archdiocese. In the course of the meeting, Rijiju reaffirmed his dedication to finding a permanent solution to the persistent land issue burdening the community.
"We are grateful for the visit of the Union Minister and his assurance to work towards a long-term solution to the issues faced by Munambam people," Archbishop Kalathiparambil stated.
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