The Chandrababu Naidu government on Sunday dissolved the Andhra Pradesh Waqf Board constituted during the previous YSR Congress regime, calling it "non-inclusive" and "non-functional". A new board will be formed soon, an official order said. The TDP government said that the Waqf Board had been non-functional since March 2023. It added that it lacked representation from Sunni and Shia community members and former MPs, leading to "stagnation in Waqf operations".
The order also highlighted irregularities, including the selection of junior advocates in the Bar Council category without proper criteria, which led to "conflicts of interest involving senior advocates who filed cases".
The move came after complaints were raised against the election of SK Khaja as a board member, questioning his eligibility as a 'mutawalli' (a manager of Waqf properties). Additionally, the board failed to elect a chairman due to ongoing legal disputes.
Move Comes Amid Protests Over Waqf Amendment Bill
The move came amid protests from Muslim organisations and Opposition parties, who raised concerns about the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 8, aims to streamline Waqf Board operations. However, it has faced criticism from Opposition parties and Muslim groups, who called it a "targeted measure" against the community.
Centre Defends Bill
The Centre has defended the bill as a step toward ensuring "efficient management of Waqf properties". The parliamentary panel formed to discuss and deliberate on the bill has become a ground for debate between the ruling party and Opposition members. On Thursday, the Lok Sabha extended the duration of panel until the Budget session next year.