Andhra Pradesh Government Dissolves Waqf Board for Improved Governance
The Andhra Pradesh government has officially dissolved the AP State Waqf Board, citing the need for better governance, safeguarding of Waqf properties, and enhancing operational efficiency. The move comes after the revocation of a government order (GO) issued on October 21, 2023, which had previously appointed three elected members and seven nominated members to the 11-member board. In a new order issued on Saturday, K Harshavardhan, Secretary to the Government, stated: “In the interest of maintaining good governance, protecting Waqf properties, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the Waqf Board, the government hereby withdraws GO MS No. 47 (which constituted the board) with immediate effect.” The decision follows concerns raised by the Chief Executive Officer of the AP State Waqf Board, who informed the government of the board’s prolonged non-functionality. Additionally, multiple writ petitions challenging the legality of the previous GO had been filed in the High Court, prompting the state to reconsider the board’s structure. The High Court’s observations in these petitions played a critical role in influencing the government’s decision to dissolve the board, the order added. This action underscores the state’s intent to address inefficiencies and legal ambiguities that have hindered the Waqf Board’s performance. It remains to be seen how the government will restructure the board to ensure better governance while addressing the legal and administrative concerns raised during this process. Source: Business Standard Photo Credit: Business Standard
