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NHRC Probes Bhopal Waqf Mismanagement in Saudi Holy Cities, Issues Notices

The National Human Rights Commission has taken serious note of alleged mismanagement and financial irregularities concerning Bhopal Waqf properties, known as 'Rubats', located in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. It has issued formal notices to the Ministry of External Affairs, the Ministry of Minority Affairs, and the Madhya Pradesh government over the alleged violation of pilgrims' rights. The complaint alleges gross negligence by Mutawalli Saba Ali Khan Pataudi and associate Sikandar Hafeez, leading to a loss of control over the properties and deprivation of housing for poor Hajj pilgrims. The Commission has directed authorities to conduct an inquiry and submit an Action Taken Report within two weeks.

Key Points: NHRC Notices on Bhopal Waqf Mismanagement in Mecca, Medina

  • NHRC takes cognisance of mismanagement
  • Notices to MEA, Minority Affairs, MP Govt
  • Alleged negligence by Mutawalli & associate
  • Inquiry into FEMA violations, fund misuse
  • Action Taken Report demanded in two weeks
2 min read

NHRC takes cognisance of Bhopal waqf properties mismanagement in Mecca and Medina; issues notices to MEA and MP govt

NHRC issues notices over alleged mismanagement of Bhopal Waqf properties in Mecca & Medina. Inquiry sought into negligence & financial irregularities.

"gross negligence and financial irregularities in managing these properties - NHRC Complaint"

New Delhi, April 14

The National Human Rights Commission on Tuesday took cognisance of the alleged mismanagement of the Bhopal 'Rubat' located in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia.

The authorities are also directed to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within two weeks for the Commission's perusal.

The Commission has issued formal notices to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Ministry of Minority Affairs, and the Government of Madhya Pradesh regarding the alleged violation of the rights of pilgrims.

According to the NHRC, the complainant alleges that Mutawalli Saba Ali Khan Pataudi and local associate Sikandar Hafeez have committed gross negligence and financial irregularities in managing these properties.

The complainant asserts that the Mutawalli's failure to properly represent the Waqf before Saudi authorities led to a loss of control over the Rubats, thereby depriving poor Hajj pilgrims of essential housing.

The complaint further alleges illegal fund transfers from the Medina Rubat, violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), a lack of transparency in annual audits, and the misuse of facilities for personal associates.

Consequently, the complainant has sought a high-level independent inquiry involving the Central Waqf Council and the Indian Embassy. It has also sought an immediate removal of the Mutawalli, a forensic audit of all foreign transactions, and urgent diplomatic intervention.

The NHRC Bench, presided over by Priyank Kanoongo, took cognisance of the matter under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.

The Commission has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Principal Secretary (Revenue Department) of the Government of Madhya Pradesh, the Secretary of the MEA, the Chairman of the MP State Waqf Board, and the Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs.

The Commission has directed the authorities to conduct an inquiry into the allegations. Specifically, the state authority has been directed to verify whether these properties were acquired by the government at the time of Partition in 1947. If so, the Commission seeks to know if they are currently managed by the state; if not, it requires a report on the existing irregularities. The authorities are also directed to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within two weeks for the Commission's perusal.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who follows international charity work, the lack of transparency here is concerning. FEMA violations and illegal fund transfers suggest a systemic problem. A forensic audit is absolutely necessary. Good to see the Commission acting.
A
Aditya G
Finally! This has been an open secret for years. These rubats are a lifeline for pilgrims who save their entire lives for Hajj. Depriving them of housing is a grave injustice. The Mutawalli should be removed immediately and held accountable.
P
Priyanka N
While the NHRC notice is a good step, I hope this doesn't get stuck in bureaucratic red tape. "Action Taken Report in two weeks" – let's see if they actually comply. Our system is good at issuing notices but poor at delivering results. Prove me wrong this time.
V
Vikram M
The historical angle is important. If these properties were acquired by the government in 1947, their management is a national responsibility, not a personal fiefdom. The MEA and State Waqf Board need to coordinate properly. Jai Hind.
K
Kavya N
Heartbreaking to think of elderly pilgrims arriving after a long journey and finding no proper accommodation because of someone's greed. This is about basic human dignity. Hope the diplomatic intervention happens quickly. 🇮🇳

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