Concerns grow over the safety of valuable Waqf assets linked to Anwarul Uloom and Mumtaz College after the alleged murder of advocate Khaja Moizuddin
HYDERABAD — Fresh concerns have emerged over the future of several prominent educational institutions and valuable Waqf properties in Hyderabad following the arrest of office-bearers associated with the Mumtaz Yar-ud-Daula Waqf in connection with the murder of advocate Khaja Moizuddin.
Questions are now being raised about whether the Telangana State Waqf Board will take immediate steps to protect the properties and institutions under the trust or continue to remain a silent observer while the dispute deepens.
The institutions linked to the Waqf include well-known educational establishments such as Anwar-ul-Uloom, Mumtaz College and Aiza School. Community members and former students have expressed concern that uncertainty surrounding the administration of these institutions could affect both their functioning and the protection of their assets.
The dispute relating to the Mumtaz Yar-ud-Daula Waqf is not new. The matter has been the subject of a long-running conflict between rival groups. The dispute reached a tragic stage when advocate Khaja Moizuddin was murdered, while several individuals connected to the trust have subsequently been arrested.
Police officials investigating the case have reportedly stated that the dispute over properties belonging to the Waqf trust was one of the key reasons behind the murder.
According to provisions of the Waqf Act, the Waqf Board cannot remove a mutawalli, trustee or managing committee member merely based on allegations or an arrest.
Legal experts point out that Sections 16, 50A and 64 of the Waqf Act provide for removal or suspension only after guilt is established and punishment is awarded through due legal process. In many cases, a conviction and sentence are necessary before such action can be considered.
Sources familiar with the matter said pressure is reportedly being exerted from some quarters for immediate changes in the administration of the trust following the arrests. However, legal observers have warned that any hasty action without following due process could face legal challenges.
A legal expert familiar with Waqf matters said, “The Board has powers to act, but those powers must be exercised strictly according to law. Any decision taken without proper inquiry may not stand judicial scrutiny.”
Calls for Protection of Community Assets
Several educationists and members of the community have stressed that the institutions and lands attached to the Waqf are not private assets but community resources created for educational and charitable purposes.
They argue that the priority should be the protection of students, staff and the institutions themselves while legal proceedings continue.
Community representatives have urged the Telangana Waqf Board to appoint an independent administrator or supervisory authority to ensure that the properties remain protected and that no unauthorised occupation or transfer takes place during the ongoing dispute.
“There is a need to protect these institutions and ensure that students do not suffer because of the present controversy,” a former student associated with Anwar-ul-Uloom said.
Concerns Over Waqf Board’s Silence
Critics have questioned the continued silence of the Telangana Waqf Board despite the seriousness of the situation.
According to those familiar with the dispute, complaints regarding the management and protection of the properties had been submitted on several occasions in the past. They argue that timely intervention by the Board might have helped prevent the situation from reaching its present stage.
Some community leaders believe that prolonged inaction could create opportunities for land grabbers or unauthorised persons to target valuable Waqf properties.
They warn that if proper monitoring is not introduced immediately, attempts could be made to occupy, transfer or misuse assets belonging to the trust.
Legal Review Under Consideration
Sources indicate that officials of the Telangana Waqf Board are examining legal options regarding the future management of the trust and its institutions.
It is understood that consultations are being held with legal experts and senior officials of the Minority Welfare Department regarding possible administrative measures.
However, officials are said to be proceeding cautiously because any intervention must comply with the provisions of the Waqf Act and established legal procedures.
Community organisations, alumni associations and teachers’ groups have also been urged to participate in efforts aimed at protecting the institutions and preserving the educational legacy associated with the Waqf.
Observers say the coming weeks may prove crucial for the future of the Mumtaz Yar-ud-Daula Waqf and the educational institutions functioning under its umbrella. They maintain that transparency, legal compliance and the protection of community assets should remain the primary focus of all stakeholders involved.
As investigations into the murder case continue, attention remains firmly fixed on what steps the Telangana Waqf Board will take to safeguard the institutions, their students and the valuable Waqf properties entrusted to its care.
