INVC NEWS
Bhopal — : Madhya Pradesh has set a national precedent after the High Court gave legal clearance to the Waqf Board’s lease auction policy for agricultural land. This landmark decision positions the state as the first in India to receive judicial approval for leasing Waqf-owned properties under a structured, government-backed model. The ruling has ignited strong reactions nationwide amid ongoing controversy around the Waqf Amendment Bill.
Petitions Dismissed, Court Backs Transparency and Policy Framework
A division bench of Justice Vivek Agarwal and Justice Vivek Jain at the Madhya Pradesh High Court (Jabalpur) ruled that the lease auction process of the Waqf Board is lawful and constitutionally valid. Petitions challenging the process—mainly on technical grounds, such as questioning the authority of signatory Dr. Farzana Ghazala and auction rights—were dismissed. The court clarified that Ghazala’s appointment, though labeled “temporary,” aligns with Section 23 of the Waqf Act and holds full legal authority.
Waqf Properties to Be Freed from Illegal Occupation
Reacting to the verdict, MP Waqf Board Chairman Sanwar Patel stated that the decision would liberate several properties from illegal occupation. “People who have been unjustly benefiting from Waqf assets will no longer exploit these charitable lands. The court has validated our work and exposed attempts by vested interests to create confusion through baseless petitions,” he said.
Farmers to Benefit from Transparent Leasing Policy
With the court’s green light, the Waqf Board will now lease its agricultural land to farmers under India’s lease policy. Patel emphasized that the income generated will be reinvested into public welfare activities aligned with donor intentions. This marks a significant move toward ensuring that Waqf land serves its true charitable purpose while boosting rural livelihoods.
Legal Milestone May Influence National Waqf Land Policies
The Madhya Pradesh High Court’s decision is expected to set a powerful legal precedent that could influence similar Waqf-related disputes across India. With the Supreme Court’s ruling on the controversial Waqf Amendment Bill still pending, the MP verdict strengthens the state’s legal footing and could shape future judicial and legislative action on Waqf governance nationwide.
