Srinagar, Apr 3 (ANB): Head of the All India Imam Organisation (AIIO), Dr Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, on Friday described the Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board under the leadership of Chairperson Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi as a “model of reform and progress,” highlighting its role in institutional transformation in the Union Territory.
Dr Ilyasi made these remarks while addressing a press conference at the Central Office of the J&K Waqf Board in Srinagar, which was also attended by Dr Andrabi.
Referring to the recent situation in the Valley, Dr Ilyasi said that Jammu & Kashmir has once again demonstrated a peaceful and hospitable environment following the Pahalgam incident. He expressed satisfaction over the warmth and hospitality extended by local residents to tourists and visitors.
The AIIO Chief further stated that significant positive changes have been witnessed in Jammu & Kashmir after 2019, attributing the transformation to the vision and developmental initiatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said the functioning of the Waqf Board under Dr Andrabi reflects these broader reforms and aligns with the developmental roadmap envisioned for the region.
Highlighting key initiatives, Dr Andrabi informed that the J&K Waqf Board has become the first in the country to streamline monthly honorariums of Imams and Khateebs into regular salaries, with a substantial increase in remuneration. She emphasised that the move recognises their important role in guiding society and promoting values of compassion and harmony.
Dr Ilyasi commended the reform-oriented measures undertaken by the Board, terming them a “success story” in institutional governance.
Several prominent Imams and Khateebs associated with the Waqf Board were present on the occasion, along with the Board’s Executive Magistrate, Ishtiyaq Mohiuddin. ANB
