Amaravati, 30 November: In a significant development, the coalition government led by Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has revoked G.O.-47, issued during the previous administration, and replaced it with G.O.-75 to address legal and administrative challenges in the Waqf Board. State Law and Minority Welfare Minister NMD Farooq announced this on Saturday, to streamline Waqf properties.
The decision comes at a time when Waqf-related controversies are flaring across the country, with accusations of encroachments, questionable land claims, and administrative lapses raising public and political tensions. Minister Farooq acknowledged that the appointments made under G.O.-47 had led to legal disputes, with some individuals approaching the state High Court on 21 October 2023. The Andhra Pradesh High Court had issued interim orders halting the selection of the Waqf Board Chairman, resulting in administrative paralysis within the Board.
The minister explained that the coalition government acted swiftly to repeal the contentious G.O.-47 and issued G.O.-75 on Saturday to resolve these issues. “The previous government’s actions created numerous legal and administrative hurdles for the Waqf Board, leading to a vacuum in its functioning,” Minister Farooq said.
Adding to the national discourse, Farooq reiterated the state government’s focus on protecting Waqf properties and ensuring their proper management. He emphasized that under Chandrababu Naidu’s leadership, the coalition government remains dedicated to minority welfare and will continue taking decisive steps in this direction.
The timing of this announcement is notable, given the increasing scrutiny of Waqf Boards nationwide. In several states, parties and public forums have raised concerns over Waqf Boards claiming vast tracts of land, including those in residential and public areas. Critics argue that such moves are causing resentment among citizens, further intensifying the debate over Waqf’s role and authority in a secular state.
The revocation of G.O.-47 in Andhra Pradesh appears to be the Naidu government’s attempt to preempt similar controversies while streamlining the Waqf Board’s operations.
