The Bengal Waqf Board has criticized claims suggesting that the Raj Bhavan is built on Waqf property. Chairman Shahidul Munshi commented, "The board holds no factual information that Bengal Raj Bhavan is a Waqf property."
He further noted that, to the best of their knowledge, the Raj Bhavan isn't registered under Waqf properties, urging people to bring facts to light. They have district-wise listings, with 8,000 properties under Waqf, while in Bengal, there are close to 80,000 Waqf properties.
Shahidul Munshi added, "If a property isn't under the Waqf Board, we can't label it as such. Until it is registered with us, we can't call it a Waqf property." He emphasized that they maintain a Waqf registry, which provides clarity. If anyone wishes to know which property falls under the Waqf Board, they can file an ITR, and information can be shared.
Read Also: JPC Report on Waqf Prepared! Opposition MPs Demand Extension
Waqf Board in the Spotlight
Recently, this topic made headlines against the backdrop of the Waqf Amendment Bill. The final meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), created for this matter, took place on Thursday. During this session, the chairman invited all members to share their suggestions for concluding discussions. However, opposition party MPs requested the extension of the JPC's timeline. They are now set to meet with the Speaker of the Lok Sabha on Monday regarding this demand.
'Free to Meet the Chairman'
JPC Chairman Jagdambika Pal stated, "Our report is ready, and we will discuss it clause-by-clause. The opposition was also advocating for extending the JPC's term. Any member or opposition is free to meet with the Chairman. They are attempting to extend the JPC timeframe."
Unchecked Powers to be Reduced
The Cabinet meeting gave its nod to proposals for 40 amendments in the Waqf Act. Once the amendment bill is passed by the parliament, the unchecked powers of the Waqf Board will reduce. The board will no longer be able to declare ownership over any property without verification.
