AISSC leading organization for Sufi shrines Endorses Government’s Proposal to Amend Waqf Act
The All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC), a leading organization for Sufi shrines in India, has expressed strong support for the government’s proposal to amend the Waqf Act. Syed Naseruddin Chishty, the council’s leader and representative of the Ajmer dargah, has welcomed the proposed changes, citing severe issues within the current waqf board system.
The AISSC’s endorsement is driven by ongoing concerns about mismanagement and corruption that have plagued the administration of dargahs under the existing framework. Chishty argues that these problems have severely impacted the operation and financial health of Sufi shrines, and a reform is necessary to address these issues effectively.
Disagreement with All India Muslim Personal Law Board
The AISSC’s support for the amendment contrasts with the position taken by the All-India Muslim Personal Law Board. While the AISSC is advocating for significant changes, the Muslim Personal Law Board has been less supportive of the proposal. Chishty has criticized the waqf boards for their “dictatorial” management style, which he believes has led to the mismanagement and corruption of dargahs.
He contends that the current law inadequately represents Sufi traditions and practices, necessitating the establishment of a distinct Dargah Board. This new board would be specifically tailored to address the unique needs and challenges faced by dargahs, which are not adequately addressed under the current Waqf Act.
Press Conference Highlights and Challenges
At a press conference held in Delhi, prominent representatives from major dargahs—such as Nizamuddin Auliya in Delhi and Fatehpur Sikri in Agra—along with other Sufi shrines from Rajasthan, Hyderabad, and Karnataka, shared their experiences and challenges. They highlighted that smaller dargahs often face significant legal hurdles due to frequent notices issued by waqf boards. These notices can result in protracted legal battles that place considerable financial and operational strain on the dargahs.
Chishty revealed that there are approximately 2,000 dargahs in India, including both small and large ones, with around 800 being major and affiliated with the AISSC. The press conference emphasized the urgency of reforming the waqf management system to alleviate these persistent problems and ensure fair treatment of all dargahs.
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Government Meetings and Reassurances
On Monday, representatives from the AISSC met with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju to discuss the proposed amendments. Chishty reported that during these meetings, both officials assured the AISSC that all relevant stakeholders would be consulted before finalizing any changes to the law.
Rijiju later described the discussions as “fruitful and forward-looking,” and noted that the AISSC had expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts to support minority welfare under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration. This positive feedback from the government suggests a commitment to addressing the concerns raised by the Sufi community and incorporating their input into the legislative process.
Concerns Over Opposition and Call for Wider Consultation
Chishty has raised concerns about those opposing the proposed amendments, accusing them of forming opinions without fully reviewing the draft bill. He has warned against “false propaganda” that he believes is designed to create divisions within the community along religious lines. Chishty emphasized the importance of broader consultations to ensure that the proposed amendments genuinely address the needs of dargahs and their representatives.
He reiterated that the current Waqf Act fails to acknowledge the specific needs and traditions of dargahs, many of which are not covered by Sharia law. As such, Chishty has called for the creation of a separate Dargah Board, arguing that this board would provide better oversight and protection for the interests of dargahs. He stressed that the proposed amendments should prioritize safeguarding the unique traditions and practices of Sufi shrines, ensuring they are properly represented and managed.
