By RINA,
New Delhi: The Union Ministry of Minority Affairs has prepared an amended draft Wakf Board Act. If approved the state wakf boards would come under the direct control of the Central government and encroachment of the wakf land would be a criminal offence.
The proposed Act would give powers to the authorities to intervene and arrest the offenders, if required. It is expected that once this Act will come into effect the illegal activities of state Wakf boards would be checked. The funds meant for the uplift and welfare of the Muslim community would be utilized properly.
The proposed Act also provides for changes in structure of Central Wakf Council and state wakf boards. One of the significant proposals would be the inclusion of experts, professionals and women. The present lease period of three years of wakf properties would also be increased.