Table of Contents

APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 05/05/2025

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (05-05-2025).

📝 Mains Question

Q. The management and regulation of Waqf properties in India faces challenges of mismanagement, encroachment, and inadequate governance. Examine the key issues and suggest measures for effective administration and utilization of Waqf assets, with special reference to Assam.

✅ Model Answer

Introduction:

Waqf properties, donated for religious or charitable purposes in Islam, are governed under the Waqf Act, 1995. India has over 6 lakh registered Waqf properties, the third-largest landholding after defence and railways. However, a significant proportion is under encroachment, mismanagement, or embroiled in legal disputes. Assam, with over 6,000 Waqf estates, reflects these systemic issues.

Key Issues in Waqf Property Management:

Encroachment and Illegal Occupation:
- More than 50% of Waqf land in Assam is encroached.
- Lack of digitized land records worsens the problem.
Lack of Transparency and Auditing:
- Many Waqf Boards have not conducted regular audits.
- In Assam, reports indicate irregularities in financial disclosures.
Weak Governance by State Waqf Boards:
- Boards often lack technical, legal, and financial expertise.
- Political interference undermines independence.
Legal Disputes and Application of Limitation Act, 1963:
- Recent debates on the applicability of adverse possession pose threats to Waqf land recovery.
Poor Utilization of Assets:
- Vast prime urban land remains under-utilized or misused.
- Estimated annual revenue loss exceeds ₹10,000 crore nationally.

Case Study: Assam

The Kamrup Metro district has the highest concentration of Waqf properties.
The State Waqf Board lacks GIS mapping, leading to vulnerability to land grab.
Assam’s religious bodies have voiced concern over inclusion of Waqf under the Limitation Act, fearing large-scale losses.

Government Initiatives:

Digitalization drive through the Waqf Management System of India (WAMSI).
Central Waqf Council set up to advise on administration.
Proposed Waqf Development Corporation for better asset utilization.

Suggested Measures:

Digitization and GIS Mapping:
- Complete and update land records to prevent encroachment.
Independent Regulatory Oversight:
- Establish a quasi-judicial authority for faster resolution of disputes.
Professionalization of Waqf Boards:
- Recruitment of legal experts, land surveyors, and financial managers.
Amend the Waqf Act, 1995:
- Clarify provisions regarding Limitation Act and property protection.
Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):
- Develop Waqf lands for education, healthcare, and housing while retaining ownership.
Civil Society Engagement:
- Encourage community monitoring and awareness on Waqf rights.

Conclusion:

Waqf properties have immense socio-economic potential if managed transparently. A combination of legal reforms, technology integration, and participative governance is needed to unlock their utility. In Assam’s context, targeted state-level reforms and public accountability can transform Waqf assets into instruments of community development.

✨ Looking for top-quality APSC Mains Guidance with Personalised Mentor?

🔔 Join Our WhatsApp Study Group!

For exclusive access to premium quality content, including study materials, current affairs, MCQs, and model answers for APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exams.

Click here to join: SuchitraACS Study WhatsApp Group