Court Appoints Ad Hoc Committee for AP Waqf Board Amidst Election Stay

In response to the stay order on the election of the chairperson of the Andhra Pradesh Waqf Board, the High Court has appointed an ad hoc committee to oversee its day-to-day operations. Comprising A Md Imtiaz, P Usha Kumari, and Arif Hafiz, the committee is tasked with managing affairs but barred from making policy decisions or alienating waqf properties.

The stay, issued last November following writ petitions, prompted further legal action by four nominated members seeking continuity amid the impasse. Despite the government's non-objection, a challenge emerged against the election of Khadar Bhasha, citing legal concerns under the Waqf Act.

Justice Ninala Jayasurya, considering the complexity and implications of the pending petitions, deemed electing a chairperson premature and contrary to the court's directives. However, acknowledging the necessity of operational continuity, the court sanctioned the ad hoc committee's formation, delineating its responsibilities to ensure effective management while legal proceedings unfold.

The committee has been expressly instructed not to extend or grant leases of waqf properties beyond 11 months and is directed to refrain from making any policy decisions during its tenure. This move aims to maintain stability and prevent any further disruption to the functioning of the Waqf Board, pending a resolution of the legal challenges.