New Delhi, August 30 : A significant development has unfolded as the Centre issued a notice on August 22, signaling its intent to take over 123 properties currently under the purview of the Waqf Board. Among the notable assets earmarked for transfer is the iconic Jama Masjid located in the heart of Delhi.
This move follows a decisive step taken by the ministry earlier this year in February, when it resolved to assume control of 123 Waqf board properties encompassing various religious sites such as mosques, dargahs, and graveyards. This determination stemmed from recommendations put forth by a committee composed of two members.
A detailed report by PTI highlighted that in a communication dated February 8, the deputy land and development officer informed the board of its impending disassociation from matters related to the 123 Waqf properties.
According to the report, the Land and Development Office (L&DO) under the central ministry cited the findings of a committee led by Justice (retired) S P Garg. The committee’s report indicated that the Delhi Waqf Board had neither presented any representation nor raised objections regarding the contested properties.
The L&DO’s communication unequivocally stated, “It is evident from the above facts that the Delhi Waqf Board does not have any stake in the listed properties, neither have they shown any interest in the properties nor filed any objections or claims. It is, therefore, decided to absolve Delhi Waqf Board from all matters pertaining to ‘123 Waqf Properties’.”
The matter took another legal twist in May when the Delhi High Court granted permission to the Union government to undertake a physical inspection of the 123 properties. The possession of these assets has been a subject of dispute between the Delhi Waqf Board and the Union government.
This verdict elicited a strong reaction from Aam Aadmi Party MLA and board chairman Amanatullah Khan. He conveyed his apprehensions, asserting that the decision had triggered considerable unrest, fear, and discontent within the Muslim community. As the situation continues to unfold, stakeholders closely follow developments surrounding these contentious assets.
