Controversy Erupts Over Waqf Board Claims on Historical Monuments

The ASI presented a list of over 120 protected monuments claimed by state Waqf boards to the parliamentary panel reviewing the Waqf (Amendment) Act, drawing opposition criticism. The Culture Ministry faced accusations of misinformation and bias, while different Muslim bodies and MPs from various parties debated the issue.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) recently revealed a list of over 120 monuments officially under its protection but claimed by various state Waqf boards during a parliamentary panel session on the Waqf (Amendment) Act. These claims led to a heated exchange with opposition members, who criticized the ASI's stance and accused the Culture Ministry of spreading misinformation.

The ASI, represented by its secretary, faced sharp questions from both opposition and BJP members. Among the 53 monuments claimed by Waqf boards, some had been declared Waqf properties almost a century after being protected by the ASI. For instance, Ahmad Shah's tomb in Ahmednagar was declared a Waqf property in 2006, despite its protected status since 1909.

Representatives from the Zakat Foundation of India, Interfaith Coalition for Peace, Telangana State Waqf Board, and other organizations opposed the Bill, arguing it was against the interests of the Muslim community. Opposition MPs further accused the ASI of unauthorized possession of Waqf properties and displaying political bias in its treatment of religious monuments.

(With inputs from agencies.)