By : Imran Khan
For more than seven decades, the Waqf in Jammu & Kashmir remained neglected. Successive governments failed to bring about any meaningful reforms or development in its functioning. Despite being one of the most important religious and community institutions, Waqf properties were left in poor condition, finances were mismanaged, and the true potential of these assets was never realized. This long-standing neglect changed with the appointment of Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi as Chairperson of the Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board. Her tenure has been marked by visionary leadership, bold reforms, and exemplary work that has reached every corner of the Union Territory. She has not only revived the credibility of the Waqf Board but has also set a historic precedent for effective governance.
From the very beginning, Dr. Andrabi prioritized the restoration and beautification of shrines, mosques, and other religious sites. She ensured that these holy places reflect both their spiritual grandeur and cultural heritage. For the first time in decades, pilgrims and devotees are witnessing visible changes and improved facilities at revered sites across Jammu & Kashmir. Her work has restored sanctity, dignity, and faith in Waqf institutions that were ignored for years.
Financial transparency has been another major hallmark of her leadership. Where earlier mismanagement and leakage of funds weakened the Board, Dr. Andrabi introduced strict accountability and modern systems of governance. Through regularization of rents, digitalization of records, and the adoption of e-office practices, she has not only stabilized but also boosted Waqf revenues. These reforms have ensured that every rupee of Waqf income is now directed towards development and welfare, creating a culture of trust and credibility.
The infrastructure development carried out under her leadership has been unprecedented in Waqf’s history. Renovation and modernization of shrines, construction of Jamia Masjid Shahdara Sharief, Darakhshan Guest House, community halls, and guest facilities have changed the face of Waqf properties. Beautification drives, sanitation improvements, and the creation of modern complexes have added to the spiritual and social environment of Waqf-managed sites. What was not done in the last seventy years has now become a reality within a short span under her stewardship.
Unlike previous Government that limited Waqf’s activities to select urban centers, Dr. Andrabi has expanded the institution’s reach to every corner of Jammu & Kashmir. From Rajouri to Poonch, Jammu to Kashmir Valley, her efforts are visible in the form of renovated shrines, improved facilities, and better management of Waqf properties. Her outreach has made Waqf a truly people-centric institution, serving devotees and communities across regions.
Equally remarkable has been her commitment to retrieving encroached properties. For decades, large portions of Waqf land remained under unauthorized occupation, but little or no action was taken by earlier governments. Dr. Andrabi launched decisive campaigns to identify and retrieve these assets, ensuring that Waqf resources are reclaimed and utilized for community benefit. Her strong stance has sent a powerful message that misuse of religious trust properties will no longer be tolerated.
Alongside infrastructure and financial reforms, Dr. Andrabi has also given importance to welfare and human development. She has ensured that Waqf income is used to support education, provide scholarships, and extend assistance to the underprivileged sections of society. These initiatives reflect the original purpose of Waqf — serving humanity through compassion, knowledge, and social justice.
Looking towards the future, Dr. Andrabi has laid down a visionary plan for Waqf’s growth. Her proposed mega projects include residential apartments, shopping complexes, upgraded pilgrimage facilities, and modern administrative complexes. These projects are designed not only to increase revenue generation but also to create employment opportunities, thereby ensuring sustainable development for the institution and contributing to the broader economy of Jammu & Kashmir.
In just a short period, Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi has achieved what was not done in the last seventy years by previous governments. Through transparency, accountability, and dedicated leadership, she has transformed the Waqf Board into a vibrant, respected, and efficient institution. Her exemplary work has revived public faith, preserved the sanctity of religious sites, and paved the way for a new era of spiritual and social progress in Jammu & Kashmir.
Imran Khan Correspondent Daily Excelsior President Press Council Thannamandi
Contact number 9858219322
Email id imrankhantmd@gmail.com.
