The Islamabad Capital Territory Waqf Properties Act, 2020
The Islamabad Capital Territory Waqf Properties Act, 2020 provides for the proper management, supervision, and administration of waqf properties within the territorial limits of the Islamabad Capital Territory repealing the Auqaf (Federal Control) Act, 1976 (LVI of 1976). The Act includes provisions for the appointment of a chief administrator of Auqaf, registration of waqf property, eviction of persons wrongfully in possession of waqf properties, termination of tenancy, appeals to the High Court, and the use of waqf property and application of income therefrom among others. The Islamabad Capital Territory Waqf Properties Act, 2020 also includes provisions for the sale process of waqf property, accounts, rents, and lease money in respect of waqf property, the power of the chief administrator to issue instructions, provision of information to competent authorities and reporting entities, the bar of jurisdiction, offenses, administrative sanctions and power to make rules. In the year 2021, a bill was introduced in the Senate to further amend the Islamabad Capital Territory Waqf Properties Act, 2020. The bill proposed certain amendments in various sections of the said Act to bring meaningful and substantial changes in the provisions of the Act and make the management and administration more proper and efficient. Additionally, the Act addresses issues related to encroachment, disputes, and the enforcement of waqf regulations, intending to protect and enhance the socio-economic benefits derived from these charitable assets.
