Syed Sha Ali Ul Hussaini Takes Helm as Waqf Board Chairman with a Vision for Community Empowerment

Bengaluru: In a significant development, Syed Sha Ali Ul Hussaini has been elected as the new Chairman of the Karnataka State Waqf Board, bringing with him a promise of progress and inclusivity. Addressing the media after his election, Hussaini passionately emphasized his dedication to upholding the law and the Waqf Act, while outlining an inspiring vision for the future. He pledged to harness the potential of waqf properties to uplift the Muslim community, particularly its most marginalized members.

A Vision for Empowerment and Self-Reliance
“I am committed to empowering our community by equipping individuals with the skills and resources they need to achieve self-reliance and prosperity,” Hussaini declared. His vision centers on leveraging waqf assets to combat poverty and create sustainable opportunities for growth and development.

Gratitude to Supporters and Leaders
Hussaini extended heartfelt gratitude to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for their unwavering support during his election. He acknowledged their pivotal roles in his appointment and reaffirmed his resolve to serve the community with integrity and dedication.

Controversy and Delays in the Election Process
The road to this election, however, was not without its challenges. Initially scheduled for February 17, 2025, the election faced delays due to considerable opposition. Concerns were raised over allegations that Minority Affairs Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan sought to appoint Anwar Basha as Chairman, despite claims of his involvement in waqf land encroachments. Additionally, reports surfaced that several nominated board members were under scrutiny for criminal charges.

Calls for Transparency and Merit-Based Appointments
Activist Syed Ashraf had called on the Chief Minister to ensure that individuals with questionable backgrounds were excluded from the Waqf Board, stressing the importance of transparency and merit in the selection process. Ashraf also accused Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan of favoring close associates for key positions within the Minority Affairs Department, including the Waqf Board, which operates independently. He argued that such practices undermined constitutional values and sidelined merit-based appointments.

A Triumph for Justice and Fairness
Following the postponement of the election, Ashraf hailed Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s decision as a triumph for justice and fairness. The rescheduled election saw former Karnataka Waqf Board Chairman Anwar Basha and several board members boycott the meeting. Despite their absence, Hussaini was elected with the support of the five members present.

Commitment to Unity and Collaboration
When questioned about the boycott, Hussaini struck a conciliatory tone, emphasizing his commitment to unity and collaboration. “I am determined to work inclusively, bringing everyone together for the betterment of our community, regardless of their initial stance,” he said. He expressed optimism that those who abstained from the election would eventually join hands in supporting his leadership.

A New Era of Community Development
Hussaini’s tenure is poised to usher in a new era of community development and efficient management of waqf properties. His focus on long-term sustainability and empowerment promises to create a brighter future for Karnataka’s Muslim community, fostering hope and progress for generations to come.

Statements:

Syed Sha Ali Ul Hussaini: “I am committed to empowering our community by equipping individuals with the skills and resources they need to achieve self-reliance and prosperity. My focus will be on the efficient use of waqf properties to uplift the most vulnerable sections of society.”
Activist Syed Ashraf: “The postponement of the election was a victory for justice. We must ensure that only individuals with integrity and merit are appointed to key positions in the Waqf Board.”
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah: “The decision to postpone the election was taken to ensure transparency and fairness in the selection process. We stand for justice and meritocracy.”

Quotes:

Hussaini on inclusivity: “I am determined to take everyone along and work together for the benefit of the community, regardless of whether they supported me or not.”
Ashraf on accountability: “Appointing individuals with criminal backgrounds to the Waqf Board undermines its purpose. We need transparency and merit-based appointments to serve the community effectively.”
Hussaini on his vision: “My goal is to ensure that waqf properties are utilized to their fullest potential, creating sustainable opportunities for the community.”

Q & A:

Q: What was the main controversy surrounding the election?
A: The election was initially postponed due to allegations of favoritism and concerns over the appointment of individuals with criminal backgrounds. Activist Syed Ashraf raised objections, urging the Chief Minister to ensure transparency and merit-based appointments.

Q: Why did some members boycott the election?
A: Former Chairman Anwar Basha and several board members boycotted the rescheduled election, citing disagreements with the process. However, Hussaini was elected with the support of the five members present.

Q: What are Hussaini’s priorities as Chairman?
A: Hussaini aims to focus on community development, poverty alleviation, and the efficient management of waqf properties to ensure long-term sustainability and empowerment.

Earlier Controversy Over Election of the Chairman:

The election of Syed Sha Ali Ul Hussaini as Chairman of the Karnataka Waqf Board was marked by controversy. Initially scheduled for February 2025, the election was postponed due to allegations of favoritism and concerns over the appointment of individuals with criminal backgrounds. Activist Syed Ashraf called for transparency and merit-based appointments, leading to the postponement. Despite a boycott by former Chairman Anwar Basha and some members, Hussaini was elected with the support of five members. His tenure is expected to focus on community development and the efficient use of waqf properties.

Background of the Election:

The Karnataka Waqf Board oversees waqf properties, which are Islamic endowments meant for charitable and community purposes. The election for its Chairman was delayed due to allegations of favoritism and concerns over the integrity of some nominees. Activist Syed Ashraf played a key role in advocating for transparency, leading to the postponement of the election. Hussaini’s election marks a new chapter, with a focus on community upliftment and sustainable development.