TN won't implement new Waqf Act: Minister Shahjahan
Chennai, June 8
Tamil Nadu has reiterated its opposition to the implementation of the new Waqf Act, with Minority Welfare Minister S.M. Nasar Shahjahan announcing on Monday that the state government will neither enforce key provisions of the legislation nor immediately comply with the Centre's deadline for uploading Waqf properties to the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development portal.
The minister announced while welcoming the first batch of Hajj pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia at Chennai International Airport.
Addressing reporters, Shahjahan said the state government has encountered several practical and administrative difficulties in uploading details of Waqf properties to the centralised digital platform. In view of these challenges, Tamil Nadu plans to formally approach the Union government seeking additional time to complete the process.
According to the minister, resolutions opposing certain provisions of the Act and related implementation measures are also expected to be passed in the coming days.
Shahjahan particularly objected to the provision in the amended law that allows the appointment of a non-Muslim member to the Waqf Board. He said Tamil Nadu has not implemented the provision and has no intention of doing so in the future.
He added that the previous government did not implement the new Waqf Act in Tamil Nadu, and that the present government will not either, underlining the state's consistent position on the issue.
The remarks come amid continuing debates in several states over the implementation of the revised Waqf legislation and the Centre's efforts to digitise and streamline records of Waqf properties across the country through the UMEED platform.
The minister was speaking after receiving a special Saudi Arabian Airlines flight carrying 417 Hajj pilgrims from Medina. The group formed the first batch of pilgrims from Tamil Nadu to return after completing this year's pilgrimage.
Shahjahan said a total of 6,295 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu had undertaken the Hajj pilgrimage this year. He expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made for the pilgrims and thanked the authorities involved in coordinating the travel and return operations.
The minister also reviewed progress on the construction of the new Hajj House near Chennai airport. The facility, estimated to cost Rs 40 crore, is expected to become operational in 2027.
He said the government is taking steps to accelerate construction work and ensure the project is completed on schedule, providing improved facilities for pilgrims travelling from Tamil Nadu in the years ahead.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This seems like a reasonable administrative concern. Digitising Waqf properties is important for transparency and preventing encroachments, but if states are facing genuine practical difficulties, the Centre should provide more time. The real issue is whether this is about genuine administrative hurdles or political posturing. Either way, dialogue between Centre and state is needed.
As someone from Tamil Nadu, I appreciate the government protecting minority institutions from interference. Waqf properties have been mismanaged for decades, but throwing non-Muslim members into the board is not the solution. Better to strengthen existing systems. State knows its ground realities better than Delhi. 👏
Politically, this is a smart move for the DMK government to shore up minority vote bank ahead of elections. But practically, some central oversight of Waqf properties might actually help reduce corruption and encroachment. The story about new Hajj House is good news though - proper facilities for pilgrims should be a priority.
I support the state's stand on non-Muslim members in Waqf Board. Religious institutions should be managed by those who understand their traditions and sensitivities. However, digitisation is welcome if done properly - it can prevent illegal occupation of Waqf land which has been a huge problem. Let the Centre help with technology but not dictate governance.
Mixed feelings. On one hand, states should have flexibility. On the other hand, many Waqf properties in TN are notoriously mismanaged. The previous AIADMK government also didn't implement the Act? That shows continuity, not just politics. The real test will be whether TN itself improves Waqf
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.