Cabinet Approved Rajasthan Waqf Rules- 2023 | 03 Oct 2023

Why In News?

On October 2, 2023, the state cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot approved the Rajasthan Waqf Rules-2023. With the implementation of these rules, waqf work in the state will be done with more ease, clarity and transparency.

Key Points:

• Section 109 of the Central Waqf Act, 1995 empowers the state government to make rules for the operation of waqf. The state government has shown readiness and has taken steps towards implementing the rules.
• The Rajasthan Waqf Rules-2023 mention the mutavalli of waqf properties, managing committee and management plan as well as the educational qualification of Mutavalli. Along with this, provisions have been made related to the appointment of waqf survey commissioner, powers of investigation to survey commissioner and publication of list of waqf properties.
• Similarly, the rules provide for the appointment, tenure of office and service of the Chief Executive Officer of the Waqf Board, as well as the chief executive officer or the officer authorized by him to inspect records, registers or documents related to any Waqf property in any public office.
• The Chief Executive Officer may order inspection of the proceedings or records kept in custody of the Board, subject to prescribed fees and conditions. At the same time, a rule has been made to check the Waqf properties that do not exist. A provision has also been made to conduct an inquiry by the Board on receipt of a complaint related to the administration of Waqf property.
• The Rajasthan Waqf Rules-2023 also provide for auditing of accounts of Waqf properties, withdrawal of property transferred without permission of the Board, removal of encroachment from properties, authorizing the Waqf Board Chairman or Chief Executive Officer to pursue any suit against the Board and annual report of the Board.