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Ghulam Najmi Farooqi, National Secretary of AISSC, while talking to The New Indian during a press conference at India Islamic Cultural Centre emphasised the severe challenges faced by Sajjadanashin under the current Waqf system. “The most significant problems caused by the Waqf Act are faced by the Dargahs,” Farooqi said.
NEW DELHI: The All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC) has strongly endorsed the central government’s proposed amendments to the Waqf Board Act, highlighting pressing concerns related to the representation and treatment of Dargahs and their Sajjadanashin. The amendment is likely to be tabelled in the parliament by the government during this session.
Ghulam Najmi Farooqi, National Secretary of AISSC, while talking to The New Indian during a press conference at India Islamic Cultural Centre emphasised the severe challenges faced by Sajjadanashin under the current Waqf system. “The most significant problems caused by the Waqf Act are faced by the Dargahs,” Farooqi said.
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“The Sajjadanashin, who are the legal representatives and custodians of these sacred sites, encounter numerous hurdles. Despite our ancestors having been granted land by Mughal rulers and having formally entered it into Waqf, we still have to seek permission from the Waqf Board for repairs. Often, these permissions are denied or delayed, and Sajjadanashin face prolonged wait times before being attended to.”
He added, “The current Waqf Act does not clearly define the role of Sajjadanashin, which leads to ongoing litigation and conflict. There is a significant disconnect between the Waqf Board and the Sajjadanashin, as the Board imposes a 7% tax on every offering without acknowledging the unique role and contributions of the Sajjadanashin. This lack of clarity and recognition exacerbates the difficulties they face.”
Farooqi further detailed the practical problems encountered: “When a Dargah falls under Waqf, the Sajjadanashin must navigate bureaucratic obstacles that often hinder essential repairs and maintenance. Our memorandum demands that the government address these issues by either ensuring that Sajjadanashin’ pleas are heard promptly or by establishing a separate Dargah court to handle such matters effectively.”
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The AISSC has urged the central government to incorporate these concerns into their reforms. “We met with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju to present our letter urging that any changes to the Waqf Act consider the plight of Dargahs and the Sajjadanashin,” Farooqi noted.
The AISSC also advocated for greater transparency in the functioning of the Waqf Board, including the creation of an online list of Waqf boards to facilitate better oversight. “The Waqf system should honour the voluntary donations made by individuals and respect the traditions of Dargahs,” Farooqi concluded, saying “The government should ensure that the role and rights of Sajjadanashin are clearly defined and protected is crucial for the fair and effective management of Waqf properties.”
