RTI nd Waqf activist Wazir Baig welcomes High Court decision to ensure transparency in Karnataka Waqf Board elections.
Team Clarion
BENGALURU –The Karnataka High Court has annulled the voter list for the upcoming Waqf Board elections and mandated the creation of a new list after activist Wazir Baig filed a petition questioning its credibility. Baig, known for his work in Right to Information (RTI) and Waqf advocacy, highlighted discrepancies in the original list, alleging that numerous entries were fabricated and that some candidates were involved in corrupt practices to secure their eligibility.
According to a recent Karnataka government notification, the election, scheduled for 19, 2024, aims to fill vacancies on the Karnataka State Awqaf Board, following provisions under the Waqf Act, 1995, and the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2013. Voting will take place across multiple districts, with polling stations set up in Bengaluru, Belagavi, Kalaburagi, and Mysore.
Baig stressed the importance of transparency, particularly within the “mutwalli” category, which includes both elected and hereditary members. He insisted that “elections must be conducted in a transparent manner” to ensure fair representation. “Proper procedures for selecting mutwalli members are not being followed, and this needs immediate correction,” he stated.
He also issued a stern warning that if any district Waqf officers found to be complicit in adding fictitious names to the voter list would be held accountable. “My intention is not to disrupt the election,” Baig clarified, “but to ensure it is conducted fairly and transparently.” He added that he would continue to monitor the process and report any further discrepancies to the authorities.
The High Court’s directive to release a revised voter list is seen as a pivotal step toward restoring integrity in the electoral process. Baig expressed optimism that the new measures would lead to a more legitimate and credible exercise of voting.
