As the national debate over Waqf properties and Muslim community rights continues, Maulana Muhammad Sajid Rashidi, President of the All India Imam Association, called the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 a “historic and pro-nation move” on Wednesday. He also sharply criticised the Congress party and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.“The Congress used Muslims as a mere vote bank for over 70 years and never formulated serious policies for their education, healthcare, employment, or religious property protection,” Maulana Rashidi accused.

Speaking about over 250 bighas of Waqf land in Delhi, he alleged that successive Congress governments unlawfully gave the land to preferred builders and political allies instead of giving it back to the community or using it for the public good. He added, “This is not limited to Delhi; similar land scams have plagued Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Rajasthan.” 

Rashidi criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for reportedly saying the amended Waqf law would not be enforced in the state. He questioned, “If the law benefits the community, why are people protesting in Bengal? Why were Muslim demonstrators baton-charged and booked?” suggesting that “This proves that the issue is more about political posturing than public interest.”

Referring to reports from the Sachar Committee, Ranganath Mishra Commission, and others, Maulana Rashidi pointed out the ongoing struggles faced by Indian Muslims. He accused the Congress party of ignoring solid recommendations. He stated, “Unlike Congress, the Modi government has laid the foundation for transparent reforms in Waqf governance, introducing digital record-keeping and public accountability.” 

He called on the Muslim community to move away from emotional politics and instead focus on real progress. “We can no longer confine our children to madrasas alone. They must access mainstream education, technical training and administrative services. For that, securing and utilising our Waqf properties is essential.” Making an appeal to the prime minister, he said, “We ask Modi to view Muslims as a ‘reserve force’ — a community that wants development, not division. We want to stand shoulder to shoulder with the nation.” 

Rashidi called for introspection within the community, saying, “Stop judging leaders by what they say. Ask who builds schools for our children, who protects our land, and who digitises our property records. These are the real questions.” He wrapped up by stating that the Waqf Amendment Bill is a step toward Muslim welfare and a broader reform for clarity and righteousness in society. “Any party opposing it is not just anti-Muslim, but anti-progress and anti-accountability.” Mohammad Kamal Khan, Rafia Naaz, Tariq Imran, and others attended the press meeting.