Daijiworld Media Network - Ratnagiri
Ratnagiri, Oct 4: The controversy over the alleged sale of around 621 gunthas of Waqf-linked land in Dapoli has taken a new turn, with senior Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam claiming that a revenue inquiry found that the property did not belong to the Waqf Board and that the transactions were carried out with the permission of the Charity Commissioner.
Kadam said the sale and purchase transactions involving the land were completed through the proper procedure after obtaining permission from the Charity Commissioner. He also challenged former Dapoli corporator Sanjay Sawant, who has alleged that the land belonged to the Waqf Board, to produce documentary evidence supporting his claims.
Kadam termed Sawant's allegations baseless and defamatory and questioned whether the revenue inquiry report and official records would provide relief to those involved in the disputed transactions. He also cautioned Sawant against making allegations without documentary evidence.
The controversy centres on around 621 gunthas of land associated with the Waqf institution Kazi Rahman Kazi Isa in Dapoli. Sawant has alleged that the land was sold or transferred without the necessary permission of the Waqf Board. According to reports, the 621 gunthas were involved in two separate transactions covering 180 and 441 gunthas.
Sawant has also claimed that the Maharashtra State Waqf Board objected to the transactions and that show-cause notices were issued to 44 people, including a political figure from the ruling side. The notices allegedly sought explanations within seven days and questioned why the land should not be taken into Waqf possession and why legal action should not be initiated against those concerned.
He has further alleged that buildings and bungalows have been constructed on portions of the disputed property. These allegations have led to demands for a detailed inquiry into the ownership, transfer and subsequent use of the land.
The matter has also drawn political attention, with demands for an investigation into the transactions. Sunil Tatkare has said he would request Maharashtra Minority Development Minister Sunetra Pawar to look into the matter. A separate report has also highlighted allegations concerning the use of the Charity Commissioner's powers in relation to the land transactions.
The competing claims have left the status and legality of the disputed transactions at the centre of the controversy. Further action by the revenue authorities, Waqf authorities and the state administration is expected to clarify the ownership records and validity of the transactions.