Andhra Pradesh Waqf Board Chairman Sk. Abdul Azeez.
| Photo Credit: File Photo

Almost 50% of the 1,986 immovable assets of the Andhra Pradesh Waqf Board is under encroachment. Out of the total land extent of 65,783.88 acres, nearly 31,594.20 acres is under resumption by the State government, according to Waqf Board Chairman Sk. Abdul Azeez.

In an exclusive interview to The Hindu, Mr. Azeez said, “The Waqf Board is initiating action under the provisions of the Waqf Act, 1995. It is obtaining details of occupied properties in consultation with the revenue authorities.”

Around 30,000 acres of land that was free from encroachment would be leased out through public auction soon, he said.

Without revealing the current market value of the lands, Mr. Azeez said, “The valuation suggests a highly promising opportunity for both investors and developers. We are under the process of obtaining permission from the government for leasing out the lands.”

Thrust areas

When asked about the plans to utilise the funds thus accrued, Mr. Abdul Azeez said, “The objective is to uplift the community through a comprehensive approach, focusing on education, employment, and infrastructure development. By enhancing access to quality education, we aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed for success.”

“Skill development programmes will empower people to improve employability, fostering local talent and providing opportunities for sustainable growth. Additionally, the development of institutional infrastructure, such as schools, community centres, and transport systems, will create a solid foundation for long-term prosperity,” he said.

Earlier, the Waqf Board had tried to lease out its properties, but a group of people among the community opposed giving lands to the industry. Those assets had been lying vacant for seven years without any revenue, he observed.

Mr. Azeez said he would not allow such disturbances, and all lands would be brought into use by leasing out to industrialists, irrespective of caste and religion.

He further said the income generated from the auction process would be used for the education of children and hand-hold widows in the community. “Those who want to set up new industries should take advantage of the opportunity,” he said.