Is 50% of the Waqf Properties in Bengal Registered in the Centre's Portal?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, around 50% of the Waqf properties in West Bengal have been registered in the Centre's portal. With a directive from the state government to finalize the remaining registrations soon, this initiative could reshape property management in the state. Will the deadline be extended? Read on to find out!
Key Takeaways
- 50% of Waqf properties registered on the Centre's portal.
- State government directive for full registration.
- Total of 82,600 Waqf properties in Bengal.
- Potential application for deadline extension.
- No Supreme Court stay on registration process.
Kolkata, Dec 3 (NationPress) Approximately 50% of the Waqf estate has been successfully entered into the Centre's portal by the West Bengal Waqf Board, with plans to finalize the remaining registrations as soon as possible, according to a government official's statement on Wednesday.
Recently, the state administration issued a notice to all District Magistrates, instructing that the details of all Waqf properties in the region should be recorded on the central 'Umeed' portal by Friday.
In total, there are 82,600 Waqf properties categorized under 8,063 Waqf estates within the state.
Board chairman and former judge, Sahidullah Munshi, remarked, "We have already registered 50% of the estate details on the central portal. If the deadline approaches, we will support the 'mutawalli' (the individuals tasked with managing the Waqf)."
While the official did not specify an alternative solution, board members mentioned privately that the Supreme Court has not prolonged the deadline but has allowed for some flexibility. If the registration is not completed on time, a request for an extension can be submitted to the state Waqf Tribunal.
A state minister involved with Waqf affairs and the Muslim Personal Law Board expressed optimism, stating, "We anticipate the deadline will be extended as the Supreme Court has hinted at that possibility."
Sources within the board noted that until the central portal is operational, no applications can be made to the tribunal. Consequently, they will have to wait until December 5.
The Trinamool Congress has voiced strong opposition to the Waqf Amendment Act 2025.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has assured minority communities in her addresses that the Waqf Act will not be enforced in West Bengal.
Numerous cases related to Waqf are currently pending in the Supreme Court, but the court has not issued any restraining order regarding the registration of Waqf property information.
Although the court has imposed interim stays on various other sections, it has thus far provided legal leniency on this matter.
The registration process for Waqf property details commenced on the central portal on June 6.
Point of View
I believe the registration of Waqf properties is a crucial step towards transparency and accountability. It reflects the government's commitment to better manage these assets, ensuring they serve the community's needs effectively. However, the ongoing legal discussions and potential extensions indicate a complex landscape that requires careful navigation.
NationPress
04/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Waqf properties in Bengal have been registered?
Approximately 50% of the Waqf properties in West Bengal have been registered in the Centre's portal.
What is the total number of Waqf properties in West Bengal?
There are a total of 82,600 Waqf properties across 8,063 Waqf estates in West Bengal.
What is the 'Umeed' portal?
The 'Umeed' portal is the central system where details of Waqf properties are being registered.
What happens if the registration deadline is missed?
If the deadline is not met, an application for an extension can be filed with the state Waqf Tribunal.
Has the Supreme Court provided any relief regarding the registration?
While the Supreme Court has not extended the deadline, it has allowed for an application for extension to be filed.
