Minister of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi expressed confidence that Central Waqf Council will work towards connecting waqf properties with development of Muslim community. <br/><br/>Addressing the National Conference of Waqf Boards in New Delhi yesterday, he said even after new Waqf Act, several states have not been able to utilize waqf properties for socio-economic-educational empowerment of Muslim community. Mr. Naqvi said several waqf properties have been encroached by waqf mafia. There is a need for a campaign to ensure usage of waqf for whom it is meant.<br/><br/>Mr. Naqvi said that new Waqf Act, 2013 has been improved but there is need for further improvement. He said, the Center has been moving forward with strong commitment to over-all development of all sections of the society including Minorities. Inclusive growth of Muslim community is the target. Protection and development of waqf properties is an important step in this regard, he said. <br/><br/>There are 31 State Waqf Boards and more than 4 lakh registered waqf properties across the country besides other properties which have not been registered.