The Center told the Supreme Court that Waqf is an Islamic concept, but it is not a compulsory or compulsory part of religion. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the government, argued this during the ongoing hearing on petitions challenging the validity and functioning of Waqf laws. Mehta told the back that Waqf is an Islamic concept, but is not an essential part of Islam. He said that donation is the specialty of all religions. Even Christians can follow it. There is a structured system of charity in Hinduism. The Sikh community also follows similar practices.
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If Waqf is 100 years old then why not show records?
Refuting the claims of Waqf institutions being older than a century, Mehta said, “Where will we find documents of assets 100 years ago? It is being incorrectly presented that such documents were never necessary. If you claim the Waqf status before 100 years, then at least present the records of the last five years. He said that the documents are always important. Mehta said that the 1923 Act states that if the documents are present, they should be submitted.
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Defending the presence of non-Muslim members in the Waqf Board, Mehta said that his involvement would not affect religious activities. He said that if there are two non-Muslim members then what difference does it make? They do not interfere in religious affairs. He further clarified that the role of Waqf Board is administrative. He said, the Waqf Board performs secular work. For example, managing assets and maintaining accounts, which are also subject to audit.