Muslim cleric claims India has the largest number of Waqf properties globally, surpassing even Turkey

In an undated video circulating online, a Muslim cleric has claimed that Bharat (India) holds the largest number of Waqf properties globally, surpassing even Turkey, which ranks second. The cleric emphasized that Bharat stands at the forefront of Waqf properties, ahead of other significant hubs such as Pakistan, Syria, Palestine, and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.

According to the cleric, the Sachar Committee report estimates that Waqf properties in Bharat encompass around 60 lakh acres, or 24,280 square kilometers. To put this into perspective, he compared the size of Waqf-owned land to the Indian state of Kerala, which spans 38,863 square kilometers. He noted that the Waqf properties cover an area nearly equivalent to half of Punjab, which is approximately 50,000 square kilometers.

The cleric further explained that these Waqf properties make Bharat the country with the third-largest landholdings, following the Indian Armed Forces and the Indian Railways. “Waqf comes at third position,” he stated, “and the estimated market value of these properties is said to be around Rs. 2 lakh crores.”

Despite the substantial value of these properties, the cleric lamented the vast underutilization of their revenue potential. He revealed that, theoretically, Waqf properties in Bharat could generate an annual revenue of Rs. 20,000 crores. To underscore the significance of this figure, he compared it to the budgets of various Indian states, noting that some smaller states operate on budgets of just Rs. 5,000 crores. “The revenue potential of Rs. 20,000 crores is more than the entire budget of many states in Bharat,” he remarked.

Read More: Kerala: “Waqf Board Amendment Bill should come into force soon,”says BJP National Vice President AP Abdullakkutti

However, the actual revenue generated from Waqf properties currently stands at only Rs. 163 crores per annum—a figure that starkly contrasts with its potential. The cleric expressed disappointment over this discrepancy, urging for better management and utilization of Waqf assets to realize their full economic potential. “Compare Rs. 20,000 crores and Rs. 163 crores,” he said, highlighting the gap between potential and reality.

The PM Modi-led NDA government’s recent move to amend the Waqf Act has been widely welcomed by the general public, despite some opposition from a few Muslim outfits. The legislation, which addresses concerns over mismanagement, nepotism, and alienation of Waqf properties, was sent to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further refinement after Congress and other I.N.D.I.Alliance parties created a ruckus in Parliament.

The amendment has been particularly well-received in Tamil Nadu, where many have been affected by the Waqf Board’s unchecked powers, reportedly backed by the ruling dispensation. The legislation is seen as a relief for those who have long sought reforms in the management of Waqf properties.

Before the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Congress had proposed the idea of inheritance and redistribution of assets to minority communities, primarily targeting Muslim voters. While the move was viewed by many as a ploy to secure minority votes, it did contribute to Congress winning 99 seats, doubling its tally from the 2019 elections.