Four months of unpaid honorariums leave religious leaders in financial distress amid Government delays
Team Clarion
HYDERABAD — As the holy month of Ramadan is approaching, Imams and Muezzins across Telangana are facing financial hardship due to unpaid stipends for the past four months. Despite directives from the Minority Welfare Department to release the funds on time, delays attributed to the Finance Department have left thousands of religious leaders struggling to meet their essential expenses.
The Telangana State Waqf Board provides monthly stipends of Rs. 5,000 to 15,700 Imams and Muezzins. While payments were made up to September 2023, the honorariums for October to January remain pending. Waqf Board officials claim they have forwarded the necessary proceedings to the Finance Department, but the release of funds has been stalled, reportedly due to the state’s weak economic position.
“We have done our part by sending the proceedings, but the Finance Department is yet to act,” said a Waqf Board official, who requested anonymity. “This delay is causing unnecessary hardship for those who rely on these stipends, especially with Ramadan around the corner.”
For many Imams and Muezzins, the stipend is a crucial source of income. “We depend on this money for our daily needs and to prepare for Ramadan,” said Maulana Abdul Rahman, an Imam from Hyderabad. “It is disappointing that we have been left in the lurch for months. The government must understand our plight and release the funds immediately.”
The issue has also drawn criticism from political quarters. The Congress Party, which had promised to increase the monthly honorariums to Rs. 8,000 for Imams and Rs. 10,000 for Muezzins, has accused the government of failing to prioritise the welfare of religious leaders. “The delay in releasing stipends is unacceptable,” said a Congress spokesperson. “The government must fulfil its promises and ensure that those who serve the community are not neglected.”
Officials from the Minority Welfare Department have expressed frustration over the Finance Department’s inaction. “Many of our schemes are facing delays because of budget-related issues,” said a senior official. “We urge the government to intervene and resolve this matter, especially with Ramadan approaching.”
As the holy month begins, the Imams and Muezzins are hopeful for a swift resolution. “We are not asking for much, just what is rightfully ours,” said Muezzin Syed Ahmed. “We pray that the government will act quickly and release the funds so we can focus on our duties during Ramadan.”
The state government has yet to issue an official statement on the matter. However, with Ramadan just weeks away, pressure is mounting for immediate action to address the financial struggles of Telangana’s religious leaders.
