The Uttarakhand Waqf Board is starting a big mission to get back properties that were not managed properly and to change city areas. This big check looks at 5,700 waqf properties in the whole state, with Dehradun being a main spot because of many cases of people building on land without permission.
Key Areas of Investigation
- Finding illegal buildings: More than 400 unauthorized homes and buildings found on top waqf land in Dehradun.
- Checking tenant exploitation: Raids on places where tenants are charged too much for subletting while the original tenants pay very little.
- Checking ownership claims: Comparing property deeds to the rules of the Waqf Amendment Act, 2025.
Strategic Initiatives
- Creating a temporary tribunal: A special legal body to quickly solve disputes and confirm ownership.
- Planning land restoration: Clearing 100 bighas of land taken over to make affordable housing units.
- Driving rent regularization: Stopping illegally sublet properties that are paid very little but rented out at high rates.
The investigation follows Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s order for strict law enforcement in waqf property management. The campaign started on 20 April 2025 and will go on until 5 May, focusing on transparency and fair use of resources.
Expected Impact
| Focus Area | Targeted Benefit |
|---|---|
| Clearing Encroachments | Freeing up prime real estate |
| Rent Regulation | Protecting the original tenants’ rights |
| Social Housing | Building flats for those in need |
Waqf Board Chairman Shadab Shams said: ‘These properties were meant for public good, not personal profit. We’re dedicated to involving communities and following the law.’
At the same time, the Supreme Court’s interim order stops any immediate changes to waqf statuses until more hearings, making sure property stays the same while the investigation goes on.
This crackdown is a big step in Dehradun’s urban growth, balancing old property rights with new housing needs. If it works well, it could lead to changes in how waqf properties are managed across the country.