Aligarh/Patna: Bihar Governor Arif Md Khan has raised concerns over the management of Waqf properties, stating that despite vast assets, the Waqf Board employees are not receiving their salaries and allowances. Speaking in Aligarh during his visit to Uttar Pradesh, he pointed out that there is something fundamentally wrong with the system and called for reforms in the Waqf Board. He also referred to the Muslim Women Protection Act of 1986 while discussing the board’s responsibilities.
Arif Md Khan, who attended the 11th convocation of Mangalyatan University, recalled that the 1986 Act had mandated that divorced Muslim women receive financial assistance from the Waqf Board. However, when he raised a question in Parliament two years after the Act’s implementation regarding how many women had been supported, the response was “zero.” He expressed concern that despite the board controlling large properties, it has failed to assist those in need, including its own employees.
Earlier in Mathura, he had also stated that Waqf properties should primarily serve the poor, but they are instead occupied by influential individuals. He questioned the purpose of Waqf properties in Mathura, asking whether any charitable institutions are running on them. Citing religious principles, he said that Waqf properties belong to God and should be used for the welfare of the poorest, not for personal benefits.
He further criticized the concept of “Al-Al Aulad” in Waqf, which allows properties to remain within a family. He argued that such practices are aimed at avoiding property confiscation rather than serving religious or social purposes. He emphasized that while the law permits it, this has no connection to religion.
Addressing the media, Arif Md Khan stressed that Waqf properties must benefit the poor rather than the wealthy. He stated that endless legal battles should be avoided and urged that these assets be utilized effectively for social welfare. While refraining from commenting on any politician’s statement, he reiterated that as Governor, he is expressing his personal opinion on the need for reforms in Waqf management.
