UP Government Claims Lucknow's Imambada Properties, Wakf Board Disputes

Jan 22, 2025

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The UP government asserts ownership of Lucknow's Imambada properties, valued at billions, challenging Wakf Board claims during a JPC meeting, sparking protests.

UP Government Claims Lucknow's Imambada Properties, Wakf Board Disputes

State Government Challenges Wakf Board Claims

In a pivotal development, the Uttar Pradesh government has claimed ownership of Lucknow’s iconic Chota and Bada Imambadas, dismissing the Wakf Board's long-held assertions. During a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) meeting held on Tuesday, the state presented findings from a comprehensive survey of Wakf properties. The properties in question, reportedly worth billions of rupees, were declared as government-owned, sparking a significant controversy.

The survey revealed that while the Wakf Board lays claim to over 14,000 hectares of land across the state, 11,700 hectares are classified as government property. Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar stated that properties without valid documentation would revert to government control.

Strong Opposition from Wakf Board and Clerics

Reacting sharply to these claims, Darul Uloom spokesperson Maulana Sufiyan Nizami accused the state of seeking political mileage. "Such statements lack understanding and only aim to create unnecessary controversies," he said.

Prominent Shia cleric Maulana Abbas pointed to historical injustices, asserting that properties of freedom fighters had been seized during British rule, while collaborators retained their holdings. “This is an extension of those injustices,” he added, warning against misuse of the Wakf Amendment Act 2024.

Shia Wakf Board Denies Government Claims

Contrary to government assertions, Shia Wakf Board chairman Ali Zaidi clarified that no discussion regarding Chota or Bada Imambada properties occurred during the JPC meeting. "These properties are managed by the Hussainabad Trust, which oversees maintenance and operational costs," Zaidi explained, expressing confidence in the trust’s ability to continue management.

Political and Social Reactions

The controversy has drawn criticism from various political quarters. Samajwadi Party spokesperson Azam Khan dismissed the government’s stance as fear-mongering, designed to alienate Muslim communities. Peace Party district president Mohammad Nafees urged government officials to exercise restraint and avoid making baseless statements.

Historical and Cultural Significance of Imambadas

Both Chota and Bada Imambadas are not just architectural marvels but are also deeply embedded in the cultural and religious fabric of Lucknow. Built during the Nawabi era, these structures have been maintained as Wakf properties for decades, serving as places of worship and heritage landmarks.

Government's Stand on Wakf Amendment Act 2024

The Wakf Amendment Act 2024 has been a contentious issue, with many criticizing it for enabling the state to appropriate properties without adequate evidence. The UP government insists the amendments ensure better transparency and prevent illegal claims over public assets.

What Lies Ahead?

As the JPC evaluates inputs from all stakeholders, the final decision regarding ownership is expected to have wide-reaching implications. Whether these claims stand scrutiny or are overruled remains to be seen, but the debate underscores the need for clear policies on heritage property ownership.

Conclusion

As the dispute over the ownership of Lucknow’s Chhota and Bada Imambara intensifies, the stakes are high for all parties involved. While the state government emphasizes transparency and accountability, the Waqf Board and community leaders remain steadfast in protecting their heritage. The resolution of this issue will set a precedent for similar property disputes across the nation.

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