Government Defends Decision to Dissolve Waqf Board

HRD, Electronics, and IT Minister Nara Lokesh and Minorities Welfare Minister N. Md. Farooq have justified the Andhra Pradesh government’s decision to dissolve the existing Waqf Board, citing prolonged inactivity and legal complications.

On X (formerly Twitter), Lokesh shared a post by FactCheckAP.Gov explaining the rationale behind scrapping GO No. 47. According to the post, the Waqf Board has been non-functional since March 2023, leading to administrative stagnation and legal challenges, including 13 writ petitions questioning its validity. Concerns were also raised over inadequate representation for Sunni and Shia scholars, the exclusion of former MPs, opaque appointment practices, and disputes about member eligibility. The inability to elect a chairman due to ongoing litigation further highlighted the need for restructuring.

In an official statement, Minister Farooq assured that the government is committed to forming a new, functional Waqf Board. “The new board will address past deficiencies, ensure proper governance, and protect Waqf properties across the State,” he stated.

Farooq criticized the previous YSRCP government for failing to establish a functional and inclusive Waqf Board. He emphasized Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s commitment to safeguarding Waqf properties and assured that the new board would adhere to all legal provisions.

The dissolution is seen as a step toward resolving administrative inefficiencies and legal disputes while ensuring better management and protection of Waqf lands. The government has promised swift action to constitute the new board.