NEW DELHI: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought an Action Taken Report (ATR) within two weeks from multiple authorities, including the Madhya Pradesh government and the Centre, over allegations of financial irregularities and mismanagement of Waqf properties linked to Bhopal in Mecca and Medina.
A Bench presided over by member Priyank Kanoongo took cognisance of a complaint alleging mismanagement of the Bhopal “Rubat” properties — Waqf-linked accommodations historically meant for pilgrims from Bhopal undertaking Hajj.
According to the complaint, Mutawalli Saba Ali Khan Pataudi and local associate Sikandar Hafeez were accused of gross negligence and financial irregularities in managing the properties situated in Mecca and Medina.
The complainant alleged that the failure of the Mutawalli to properly represent the Waqf before Saudi authorities resulted in the loss of control over the properties, thereby depriving poor Hajj pilgrims of housing facilities traditionally meant for them.
The complaint further alleged illegal fund transfers from the Medina Rubat, violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), lack of transparency in annual audits, and misuse of facilities for personal associates.