BJP MP Brijesh Chowta Questions Waqf Property Records in Lok Sabha
New Delhi [India], August 7: BJP MP from Karnataka, Captain Brijesh Chowta, raised a question in the Lok Sabha about the state-wise records of Waqf properties, particularly in Dakshina Kannada. He posted on X, saying, “Received a written reply from Hon’ble Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju to the question I raised in parliament regarding Waqf property & the process of designating any as such. In my question, I had sought to know whether there are state-wise records of all Waqf Property held by the Waqf Board across the country, particularly for Dakshina Kannada.”
He also asked for details about changes in the landholding of the Waqf Board and the process of designating lands as Waqf properties. The data provided as part of the response makes for insightful reading regarding various issues, especially in the context of the introduction of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill.
In a written reply to his question, it was stated that the Waqf Asset Management System of India (WAMSI Portal) was launched in 2010, and the records of Waqf property held by the Waqf Boards across the country are updated every month, with monthly reports generated on this portal. As of July 31, the details of 62,830 Waqf properties are available on the portal for the state of Karnataka, including Dakshina Kannada.
According to top government sources, the Waqf amendment bill is likely to be presented after the passage of the Finance Bill, likely this week. Before drafting the amendments, the government consulted various Muslim intellectuals and organizations to ensure comprehensive reforms. One of the key proposed amendments is the mandatory registration of Waqf properties with the District Collector’s office, allowing for proper evaluation and monitoring. Additionally, the amendments aim to enhance inclusivity by ensuring women’s representation on both the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf boards.
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BJP -: BJP stands for Bharatiya Janata Party. It is one of the major political parties in India.
MP -: MP stands for Member of Parliament. It is a person who has been elected to represent the people in the Parliament.
Brijesh Chowta -: Brijesh Chowta is a Member of Parliament from Karnataka, representing the BJP.
Lok Sabha -: Lok Sabha is the lower house of India’s Parliament where elected representatives discuss and make laws.
Waqf -: Waqf refers to a charitable trust in Islamic law, where property is donated for religious or charitable purposes.
Dakshina Kannada -: Dakshina Kannada is a district in the state of Karnataka, India.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju -: Kiren Rijiju is a politician who serves as a minister in the central government of India.
WAMSI Portal -: WAMSI stands for Waqf Asset Management System of India. It is an online portal that keeps records of Waqf properties.
Waqf Amendment Bill -: The Waqf Amendment Bill is a proposed change to the existing laws governing Waqf properties, including rules for registration and women’s representation.
