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The center may also limit the board's power over assets. (Image: AFP/File)
Sources also said a bill to amend the waqf law is likely to be tabled in parliament next week.
Sources told CNN-News18 that the Modi-led central government is preparing to amend the Waqf Act to redefine the powers of the Waqf Board. The federal cabinet on Friday approved around 40 amendments to the waqf law.
“Under the proposed amendments, claims of waqfs over properties will be compulsorily verified. Similarly, mandatory verification of properties disputed by waqfs has been proposed,” the source added.
They also said a bill to amend the waqf law may be introduced in parliament next week.
Waqf Boards owns approximately over 8.7 lakh properties with a total area of approximately 9.40 lakh acres. In 2013, the UPA government gave more powers to the Waqf Board by amending the original bill. The Waqf Law, 1995 was enacted to regulate the 'auqaf' of 'Wakif' (assets donated and termed wakf) – the consecration of property to any piety recognized by Muslim law , religious or charitable purposes.
The proposed amendments aim to increase the representation of women in the Central Waqf Board and state boards.
Sources further said: “These amendments will be extremely important after the upcoming elections in Maharashtra, Haryana and Jharkhand.”
The government has previously noted that state waqfs have broad powers to bring claims against any property and that there are delays in investigating such properties in most states.
In addition, the government is also considering involving district magistrates in monitoring waqf properties to prevent misuse of assets.
Sources said flaws in the appeals process are also being reviewed. For example, appeals against board decisions are brought by tribunals, but there is no timetable for the processing of such appeals. The decision of the court is final and cannot be appealed except by writ jurisdiction of the High Court.
Currently, there are 30 religious foundation committees across the country.
