Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The district administration intervened on Thursday to address issues regarding the alleged illegal collection of rent by Auqaf-e-Shahi from various shops in Old Bhopal. This intervention comes after traders raised concerns in a letter addressed to the Prime Minister and Home Minister regarding the inflated rent being collected by the organisation.
In a meeting with local officials, feedback was taken regarding the traders’ grievances. The primary concern raised by traders was that while the agreement specifies a 5% annual rent increase, Auqaf-e-Shahi is collecting rent with a 10% hike. Moreover, shops located near the Jama Masjid and Chowk Bazar are technically under the ownership of Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC), with a court order affirming this, yet Auqaf-e-Shahi continues to collect rent from these traders despite not having rightful claim over the properties.
The Jama Masjid shops, classified as "enemy property," are another point of contention, with traders claiming they were threatened when they voiced concerns. Another major issue highlighted by traders is the encroachment by kiosks and street vendors, allegedly promoted by Auqaf-e-Shahi, which is causing traffic disruptions on the already congested roads of Old Bhopal. According to the Waqf Board, Auqaf-e-Shahi is not authorised to form its own sub-committee.
However, a sub-committee consisting of local politicians has been formed, which traders claim has been exerting undue pressure on them. Jagdish Chhavani, Deputy Convener of the Ghar Bachao Samiti, said, "Today, district administration officials held a meeting with traders from Old Bhopal regarding the illegal rent collection by Auqaf-e-Shahi and inflated rent charges."
