Waqf lands in legal limbo amid alleged official lapses

Rangareddy: The Telangana State Waqf Board, often at the centre of land disputes in the state, continues to face questions over its handling of valuable properties. Prime lands worth crores of rupees, particularly in Rangareddy district and neighbouring areas, remain embroiled in disputes allegedly due to a lack of regular supervision by the Board.

Rangareddy, one of the fastest-growing districts after the state capital, has numerous disputes involving Waqf lands amid the expansion of the real estate sector, despite a recent saturation in property prices.

A recent controversy in Nalgonda district involving an alleged fake no-objection certificate (NOC) for more than 50 acres of Waqf land worth crores of rupees has raised concerns among activists working to protect Waqf properties in Rangareddy district.

Waqf activists have described the alleged scam as another instance highlighting concerns over the Board’s handling of its properties and questioned whether similar incidents had occurred in Rangareddy.

In response to an RTI application seeking details of 54.38 acres of land under Survey Nos. 233 and 316, recorded as Waqf property in revenue records, the Waqf authorities reportedly stated that the land details were not listed in the Board’s records or its gazette. The RTI response reportedly carried a specimen of the present Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

“Although the Waqf property at Atmakur mandal is clearly mentioned in the revenue records, the Waqf Board officials have stated in their reply to an RTI application that the corresponding gazette record is missing from the office,” said RTI activist Syed Meraj Nawab.

The Waqf land, reportedly worth Rs 150 crore, has remained embroiled in a dispute since the RTI response dated December 2025 came to light recently.

“There are several Waqf properties in Rangareddy district languishing in legal battles in various courts. From issuing flawed proceedings, NOCs and ORCs to allegedly losing cases in court, such incidents have become routine for the Board. Officials show little concern over the loss of valuable properties to land grabbers, with fresh setbacks emerging regularly,” Syed Meraj Nawab alleged.

He also questioned why the CEO had not responded to the RTI letter circulating with what was described as his own specimen.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Esa Bin Abdul Rehman

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ESA BIN ABDUL REHMAN is an experienced content creator/journalist specializing in stories covering public issues, people-oriented government initiatives, schemes, geological and political issues as well. With over two decades (25 years) of writing expertise in multiple media houses, he handles or contributes from areas such as Hyderabad and Rangareddy districts simultaneously. ESA BIN ABDUL REHMAN has completed his graduation from Dr.B.R.Ambedkar Open University (with a specialization in Literature and Translation). When not immersed in writing, he can be found spending time in raising garden vegetables, floral and herbal species to connect with nature. ESA BIN ABDUL REHMAN is an accomplished writer with a passion for writing stories covering all aspects of the society. With 25 years of experience, he has honed his craft in various genres, including entertainment or crime or education. ESA BIN ABDUL REHMAN diverse family history and embracing cultures have enriched his writing with unique perspectives.

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