The government is planning to introduce important reforms to the Waqf Act that would limit the powers currently enjoyed by state Waqf boards over property management. Sources have revealed that a draft bill being considered would make the boards’ claims of ownership subject to mandatory verification procedures.
Waqf boards currently have unfettered authority to designate any property as a waqf asset and take control of its administration. However, this system has long faced criticism from various stakeholders including Muslim intellectuals and individuals who own property. There have been calls for greater accountability and transparency in the boards’ operations.
It is learnt that last week the Cabinet discussed over 40 proposed amendments to update the existing legal framework. A key reform would involve establishing a process for verifying the legitimacy of both existing and newly claimed waqf assets. This aims to address disputes between boards and private owners over rights to property.
The amendments also seek to revamp the composition of waqf boards. Repealing certain current provisions is also on the agenda. With over 8.7 lakh properties spread across 9.4 lakh acres under their purview, the boards command massive assets valued at lakhs of crores. However, their expansive powers without checks have been a contentious issue.
By introducing mandatory and periodic audits, the government hopes to institute more robust oversight of boards’ ownership declarations and asset management. Sources believe similar global best practices were examined to draft balanced reforms respecting the instituion of waqf while ensuring accountability. The proposed bill could have far-reaching consequences in clarifying legal status of innumerable properties.
