Waqf to hire law firm, auditors for better governance of its properties

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: The Maharashtra state board of Waqf has for the first time decided to hire a law firm, professional auditors and consultants for better governance of thousands of acres of properties under it in the state. With its ownership over 92,000 acres in the state, the Waqf board is the second largest land owner after the state government. “The decision to empanel a law firm, private auditors and consultants signifies a progressive step towards strengthening the organisation. This will ensure safeguarding Waqf institutions legally and ensure their financial stability,” said the board’s chairman and MLC Wajahat Mirza.Till now, the board would pay Rs 3,000 per case to a lawyer representing Waqf in lower courts and Rs 5,000 per case to a lawyer representing waqf in high courts. Waqf board officials said the decision to engage a professional legal firm aims to elevate the legal representation and advisory services provided to the board. This move will enable the board to address legal matters more effectively, ensuring the protection and preservation of Waqf institutions and their properties, they said. Accordingly, an advertisement seeking bids from professional legal firms with proven track records has already been floated, said an official privy to the development.Furthermore, the private auditors will be tasked with conducting comprehensive audits of each waqf institution and the assets vested in them. This thorough examination will ensure transparency, accountability, and efficient utilization of resources. “By engaging private auditors with proven track record, the board aims to strengthen its financial management practices and promote better governance within waqf institutions,” said Waqf CEO MB Tashildar. He highlighted that this initiative is made possible through the allocation of Rs 10 crore from the Maharashtra state waqf strengthening fund. “This new approach signifies the board’s determination to strengthen its legal support system,” said MP Imtiaz Jaleel, who is also one of the members of the board.