Shri K Rahman Khan Reviews Implementation of Wakf Act, 1995

Calls for Timely Completion of Important Provisions

Evolve Comprehensive System for Efficient Management of Wakfs-Says K Rahman Khan

Shri K Rahman Khan, the Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Chairman, Central Wakf Council (CWC) has called for evolving a highly transparent and comprehensive system for efficient management of the Wakf properties and funds in the country. Reminding the purpose of establishing State Wakf Boards, the Minister urged to fulfil the purpose of the Wakf by expediting implementation of important provisions of Wakf Act,1995. The Minister was addressing the meeting of all the State Wakf Boards here today. Outlining the priorities requiring immediate action Shri K Rahman Khan asked to complete the survey of Wakf properties and computerization of their records within next three month in all the states, before the next review meeting. Shri Khan also appealed to all state representatives to ensure Audit of all Wakfs , proper functioning of Tribunals and development of Wakf properties on commercial lines. The strict compliance on these fronts is essential for streamlining the management, income and protection of Wakfs, the Minister added. The Minister said protection and efficient management of Wakfs properties is not only the obligation but an opportunity to serve masses. He assured continued support of the Ministry of Minority Affairs to the State Wakf Boards in their endeavor.

The Minister further said, the Wakf Act, 1954 had under gone several changes and a comprehensive Wakf Act, 1995 came into force to provide for better protection, management and development of Wakfs. Some of the important provisions are yet to be implemented fully by the State Governments/Boards even after the enactment of this comprehensive Act 17 years ago, he added. This is a cause of concern especially when amendments to the existing Wakf Act, 1995 are in the offing. Therefore, timely completion of various provisions of the Act such as the survey of various properties and registration thereof cross checking of the title of the property, establishment of Tribunals to resolve disputes and litigation besides framing of the Rules & Regulations is necessary.

Highlighting the vast potential of Wakf land available across the country,the Minister stressed the need for developing these wakf properties on commercial lines to drive higher income for the welfare of the community. For this specific purpose he stated that the Ministry of Minority Affairs has initiated the move to set up the National Wakf Development Corporation (NWDC). Shri Khan further emphasized for better coordination of the State Wakf Boards with the Central Wakf Council to enable the Ministry of Minority Affairs to yield desired results for the welfare of community.Referring to financial assistance scheme through the Central Wakf Council for development of Wakf properties he said more than 16 States have been benefitted out of the scheme. He urged all other State Wakf Boards to take benefit of the scheme by identifying potential Wakf land for development.

Earlier Shri Ninog Ering, Minister of State for Minority Affairs also addressed the meeting. The representatives of State Governments/Boards and senior officers of the Ministry attended the meeting.

The meeting has been organized by the Central Wakf Council to review the implementation of Wakf Act, 1995 and the progress of the computerization scheme of records of the State Wakf Boards emphasized the need for speedy implementation of all the provision by the Boards.