Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi recently said that if Waqf properties had been properly managed, Muslim youths wouldn’t be fixing punctures for a living.
Speaking at a public event in Hisar, Haryana, Modi stated that if Waqf properties had been utilised properly, Muslim youths wouldn’t have to earn a livelihood by repairing bicycle punctures. He attributed the mismanagement of these properties to land mafias who, according to him, exploited lands meant for Dalits, backward classes, and widows, reported Hindustan Times.
These comments were made in the context of the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which aims to reform the administration of Waqf properties. Modi emphasised that the misuse of Waqf lands had deprived the intended beneficiaries, particularly the underprivileged sections of the Muslim community, of their rightful support.
Opposition leaders and critics have condemned Modi’s remarks, labelling them as insensitive and derogatory.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi responded by questioning the Prime Minister’s contributions to the welfare of the poor during his tenure and criticised the weakening of Waqf laws . Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi also criticised the language used by Modi, suggesting it was reminiscent of social media trolls and highlighting the lack of Muslim representation in the BJP’s political framework.
The term “puncture-wallah,” used in Modi’s speech, has been previously employed as a derogatory reference to Muslims, drawing further criticism for perpetuating stereotypes, The Wire reported.
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which Modi referenced, was passed in Parliament earlier this month.
According to the BJP-led government of India, the legislation introduces changes aimed at improving the management and oversight of Waqf properties, with the government asserting that it will prevent exploitation and ensure that the benefits reach the intended underprivileged communities .
