New Delhi: In a major move aimed at bringing greater “transparency and accountability” to the administration of Waqf properties, the centre is set to introduce a bill to amend the Wakf Act, 1995. This legislation proposes to significantly curb the “unfettered” powers of Waqf Boards, which currently control a vast portfolio of assets worth lakhs of crores across the country, according to the sources.
The proposed amendments, approved by the Union Cabinet, will introduce mandatory verification for all claims made by Waqf Boards, putting an end to the current system where they had the authority to declare any property a Waqf asset without sufficient scrutiny. This new mechanism will apply to disputed properties where both Waqf Boards and individual owners have filed claims, sources said.
According to the sources, the move comes in response to concerns raised by “Muslim intellectuals”, women, and various sects, including Shia and Bohras, who have voiced apprehensions about the arbitrary powers exercised by Waqf Boards. These concerns have also been echoed by state entities like the Archaeological Survey of India. More than 8.7 lakh properties across the country, totalling around 9.4 lakh acres, are under the jurisdiction of Waqf Boards.
The bill, according to the sources is likely to be introduced in Parliament next week, aims to address several key issues
- Curbing Unfettered Powers: The amendments will introduce checks and balances on the Waqf Boards’ ability to arbitrarily declare properties as Waqf assets, ensuring a more transparent and accountable process.
- Mandatory Verification: All claims made by Waqf Boards will be subject to mandatory verification, ensuring that these claims are legitimate and backed by evidence.
- Composition of Waqf Boards: The bill proposes to amend the composition of Central Waqf Council and state Waqf boards to ensure representation for women in these bodies, promoting greater inclusivity and diverse perspectives.
- Repeal of Provisions: Certain provisions of the current law will be repealed, aiming to streamline the administration of Waqf properties and remove outdated or problematic clauses.
- Fresh Verification of Disputed Land: The bill will require fresh verification of disputed land claimed by state Waqf boards, addressing the issue of conflicting claims and ensuring accurate ownership records.
