1.2 Lakh Waqf Properties Under Government Verification Drive

The central government has initiated a comprehensive verification process for over 1.2 lakh waqf properties across the country, according to official sources. These assets, managed by various state waqf boards, are currently at different stages of scrutiny to assess their legal status, encroachments, and utilisation.

The exercise is part of a broader effort to streamline waqf administration and ensure that properties are used for their intended charitable purposes. The Ministry of Minority Affairs, which oversees waqf matters, has directed state boards to submit detailed reports on the status of each asset.

Verification includes cross-checking land records, physical surveys, and examining lease agreements. Many waqf properties have been subject to illegal occupation or unauthorised construction over the years. The government aims to reclaim such assets and put them to productive use for community welfare.

Officials said that the process is expected to be completed in phases, with priority given to properties in major cities and those with high revenue potential. The data collected will also help in creating a centralized database of waqf properties for better transparency and monitoring.

The move has been welcomed by some community leaders who see it as a step towards protecting waqf assets. However, concerns have been raised about the pace of verification and possible bureaucratic hurdles. The government has assured stakeholders that the process will be carried out with due diligence and in accordance with the Waqf Act.

As of now, approximately 30% of the identified properties have been fully verified, while others are at preliminary stages. The government has set up a dedicated portal for real-time tracking of the verification status.