Letter to Minority Affairs Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju-------- Date: April 4, 2025 To: Shri Kiren Rijiju Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs Union Minister, Government of India New Delhi – 110001 Subject: Gratitude for the New Waqf (Amendment) Bill “UMEED” Respected Minority Affairs Minister, Greetings from the Namo Foundation. We sincerely appreciate your visionary leadership and constant efforts for the upliftment of every section of society. The recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha, known as the Unified Waqf Management Empowerment, Efficiency and Development (UMEED), is yet another testament to your resolve. On behalf of the Namo Foundation, I extend heartfelt thanks for bringing this bill. The Waqf Act of 1995 had several shortcomings, such as encroachments on properties, mismanagement, lack of transparency, and delays in surveys, which hindered the intended purpose of Waqf properties. These issues deprived the poor Muslim community of benefits in crucial sectors like education, health, and livelihood. The "UMEED" bill is a bold step toward resolving these challenges. Provisions like digitization, centralized registration, and improved auditing will not only bring transparency in the management of Waqf properties but also ensure the welfare of the underprivileged sections of society. Under your leadership, this bill will not only bring administrative reforms but also ensure that Waqf properties are used solely for their religious and social purposes. The inclusion of non-Muslim and women members in the Waqf Board is a progressive move towards inclusivity and gender equality. We believe this bill is a significant initiative in realizing your vision of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas." The Namo Foundation stands firmly with you in this endeavor and will continue to support future reforms under your leadership. Once again, heartfelt thanks and best wishes to you and your government for this historic step. Note: On behalf of the Namo Foundation team, we humbly request the opportunity to meet with the Honorable Minister. We hope you will kindly consider our request and grant us the honor of an appointment. Your time and support would mean a great deal to us. Thank you! Respectfully, R.K. Bimal National President Namo Foundation Website: www.namofoundation.in