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The Maharashtra government has officially withdrawn its recent order to allocate ₹10 crore to the Maharashtra State Board of Waqfs (MSBW). Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik announced the cancellation on November 29, following strong opposition from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BJP argued that the Waqf Board lacks constitutional legitimacy and insisted the decision was made without proper consultation.
BJP’s Strong Opposition to the GR
The BJP’s Maharashtra unit expressed its dissatisfaction, stating that the decision to allocate funds was made administratively. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the party clarified that the order did not receive their approval. “Fake news is spreading that the BJP-Mahayuti government gave ₹10 crore to the Waqf Board. This decision was taken at the administrative level and has now been cancelled,” the post read.
The BJP reaffirmed its stance, insisting the Waqf Board has no constitutional standing. The party also promised to continue opposing any future efforts to allocate funds to the board.
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GR Details and Immediate Withdrawal
On November 28, the Maharashtra government’s Finance and Planning Department issued a Government Resolution (GR) approving a ₹10 crore grant for the Waqf Board. The resolution specified that the funds were intended to strengthen the MSBW, headquartered in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad). However, after facing backlash, the government swiftly revoked the GR the next day.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified the decision, stating, “The Chief Secretary has immediately withdrawn the GR, as it was improperly issued during the tenure of a caretaker government.” He assured the public that the legality of the matter would be thoroughly investigated once the new government is in place.
Background on Maharashtra’s Political Situation
Eknath Shinde is currently serving as Maharashtra’s caretaker Chief Minister. The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance recently retained power in the state, winning 230 of the 288 assembly seats in the election concluded on November 26. The BJP secured 132 seats, Shiv Sena 57, and the NCP 41.
Union Government’s Waqf (Amendment) Bill
These events occur amid discussions around the Union government’s Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. This proposed legislation, introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 8, aims to enhance transparency and accountability in Waqf Board operations. It also includes a mandate for greater representation of women.
The bill is currently under review by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) led by MP Jagdambika Pal. Opposition members have requested an extension for further discussions on the bill.
₹2 Crore Already Disbursed
Before the withdrawal, ₹2 crore had already been disbursed from the approved ₹20 crore budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The resolution had also directed the Waqf Board’s Chief Executive Officer to ensure that all expenditures complied with established norms.
The swift withdrawal of the GR underscores the sensitivity surrounding Waqf Board funding in Maharashtra. The BJP remains steadfast in its position, while the government promises to investigate the issue further under the new administration.