Shahapur Delegation Submits Demands to Maharashtra Waqf Board Over Land Issues
A delegation from Shahapur in Thane district met Maharashtra State Waqf Board Chairman Sameer Qazi at his Mumbai office to submit a memorandum demanding measures to protect Waqf properties, curb land encroachments, and simplify administrative procedures.
During the meeting, the delegation urged the Waqf Board to decentralise its administrative services and strengthen district-level facilitation centres. Representatives noted that applicants from across the region are currently forced to travel repeatedly to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar to complete Waqf and scheme registrations, resulting in significant delays and inconvenience. They requested that applications be scrutinised and processed directly at the district level.
The memorandum also highlighted widespread concerns regarding alleged encroachments and the unauthorised occupation of Waqf land across the state. The delegation sought a comprehensive investigation into illegal possession cases and called for immediate legal action against those found guilty. Additionally, they demanded a thorough review of disputed rights and unauthorised tenancy entries in revenue records to protect properties from unlawful claims.
The representatives further urged the board to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and establish an accountable administrative framework. They advocated for an improved online application and status-tracking system, while demanding prompt, impartial inquiries into any complaints regarding financial malpractice or procedural irregularities.
Responding to the delegation, Qazi assured the members that the matters raised in the memorandum would be examined and necessary action initiated promptly.
Several local political and community leaders participated in the meeting, including Shiv Sena Thane District Chief Maruti Dhirde, Shiv Sena Shahapur Taluka Chief Prakash Vekhande, Shiv Sena Shahapur Taluka Minority Department Chief Advocate Abubakar Sheikh, and Shahapur Masjid Trust President Mohammad Pathan. Sharif Pathan, Sagir Sheikh, Imran Sheikh, Sadiq Sayyed, and Yunus Sheikh were also present.
Following the discussions, Advocate Abubakar Sheikh reiterated that Waqf assets belong to the community and require transparent management and legal safeguards, expressing confidence that the board will introduce concrete reforms.
