Chittagong: Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain announced that a total of 257,400 acres of waqf land have been illegally occupied, and measures are being implemented to recover these properties for societal benefit. While addressing reporters before a meeting focused on reclaiming occupied waqf estates at the local circuit house conference room, he clarified that rumors regarding the construction of a mosque on Sitakundu-Chandranath Hill are unfounded.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Khalid emphasized that such misinformation is intended to disrupt the country’s peaceful and harmonious environment, especially given Chandranath Hill’s historical and religious significance. He highlighted that the Waqf Administration is actively safeguarding and managing waqf properties nationwide, with routine monitoring operations now in place to prevent further encroachments.
Dr Hossain outlined the government’s commitment to preserving and enhancing waqf properties, aiming for better discipline wi
thin this religiously significant sector. He detailed efforts towards digital registration of waqf properties, which promote transparency in rental and leasing processes, curb illegal occupations, and boost income for social welfare initiatives, including education, health, and mosque-madrasa development.
The adviser also underscored the vital role of waqf properties in supporting the Muslim community’s spiritual, educational, and welfare activities. Additionally, he proposed that transporting Haj pilgrims via sea routes could reduce the pilgrimage cost by 40 percent. Dr Khalid urged all parties to refrain from spreading misinformation that could damage the country’s longstanding tradition of inter-communal harmony.