In Hyderabad, Abid Rasool Khan, the former head of the Telangana State Minorities Commission, has criticized the alleged illegal destruction of Waqf properties in Kodangal and a historic religious site in Kosgi, Narayanpet district.
Khan issued a statement on Friday condemning the unauthorized demolition of religious sites without following the legal requirements of the Waqf Act.
He listed several Waqf properties in Mahaboobnagar district that have been demolished or are at risk. These include Chilla Moula Ali in Ailavanpally, Chilla Mahboob Subhani in various areas, and multiple graveyards and dargahs in Kondangal. These sites are officially registered and protected under Sections 51, 52, and 91 of the Waqf Act, which require a legal process for any demolition or acquisition.
Khan pointed out that courts have repeatedly ruled that Waqf properties must not be altered or taken over without legal procedures. He expressed concern about ignoring these rulings, mentioning the demolition of homes of poor Muslim residents as part of the Musi Riverfront Development Project by HYDRAA. According to Khan, these residents were denied compensation and relocation.
In Kosgi, a 300-year-old Chilla of “Takia Achan Saheb” faces demolition. A group from Kosgi approached Khan about this issue, leading him to call for immediate legal action and examination.
Khan urged the public to be aware of these issues and called for institutional accountability. He believes demolishing religious sites not only breaks legal rules but also harms the cultural and spiritual heritage of minority communities. His appeal comes at a time of increasing tension over land acquisition and urban development in Telangana. He called for prompt action from the government and public to protect these Waqf properties.
