Waqf board a dictator, treats us like doormats; kept chadar & flowers traditions out: Ajmer’s Chishti

AISSC has voiced strong support for the central government’s proposed amendments to the Waqf Board Act

| Updated: 06 August, 2024 4:34 pm IST

The New Indian talks to AISSC Chairman Syed Naseruddin Chishty (Picture Credit: Tejasvi Pandey)

NEW DELHI: The All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC) has voiced strong support for the central government’s proposed amendments to the Waqf Board Act, highlighting long-standing concerns about the lack of understanding and representation of Dargah traditions. The amendment is likely to be tabelled in the parliament by the government during this session.

“The current board members often lack understanding of Dargahi culture and traditions,” said Sayyad Naseeruddin Chishti, Chairman of the AISSC and successor of the Ajmer Dargah. “They impose restrictions stating that our traditions are not mentioned in the Waqf Act. Traditions like offering flowers, chaddar, and incense are integral to Dargahs and should be defined in the act.”

Chishti emphasised that 70-80% of Waqf properties are associated with Dargahs, and their legal representatives are the Sajjadanashin. “Our long-standing request to the Government of India was for initiatives and amendments specifically addressing the needs of Dargahs,” he said.

*Fareed Ahmed Nizami, Delhi state President AISSC talks to media (Picture Credit: Tejasvi Pandey)*

He criticised those opposing the bill without proper information, stating, “Opposing the bill without proper information is baseless. We must thoroughly review the bill proposed by the Government of India. Only after understanding its contents should we suggest any changes or additions. Misleading the minorities is shameful, and we should refrain from doing so. Waqf is a matter for Muslims, and we should avoid discussing it without authentic information.”

Chisti said, “The amendments were highly necessary due to ongoing corruption issues. The widespread corruption within the Waqf Board and the improper use of properties donated by the public are well-known. The board’s misuse of power is evident. He also added, “The position of the Sajjadanashin, who are the founders of the shrine, must be preserved”.

*Sayyad Naseeruddin Chishti shares the demands of AISSC (Picture Credit: Tejasvi Pandey)*

Addressing concerns about the misuse of Waqf properties, Chishti noted, “When a property is mistakenly designated as Waqf, it essentially transfers ownership, leaving the original owner in a distressed situation.”

He also questioned the current provisions related to Waqf, stating, “Properties are being designated as Waqf based on surveys alone. What kind of provision is this according to Sharia? Once designated, the property cannot be challenged in civil court but only in the Waqf Tribunal, which often results in lengthy delays. The primary aim of Waqf is to aid the poor and uplift society, but this goal is not being met. Those in power are only ensuring their own benefits.”

Chishti concluded with a call for structural changes, “We propose either forming a separate Dargah Board or implementing necessary changes to address these issues. It is crucial that the bill aligns with the interests of Dargahs and ensures the proper utilisation of Waqf properties for the upliftment of the community.”