Latest news with #ChhattisgarhStateWaqfBoard
New Indian Express
3 days ago
- General
- New Indian Express
Chhattisgarh Waqf Board caps Nikah Khutba charges at Rs 1100; Muslim scholars question move
RAIPUR: A circular issued by the Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board fixing a maximum fee amount of Rs 1100 for performing Nikah (marriage) sermons has evoked strong reactions, with many Muslim religious scholars and intellectuals questioning the need for such a directive. 'The order will put unnecessary pressure on poor Muslim families to pay,' they asserted. As per the Waqf Board's directive, the Imam or Maulvi (religious leaders/scholar in Islam) officiating Nikah can take a maximum of Rs 1100 as their charges. The Waqf Board chairman, Salim Raj, told TNIE that action will be taken on a complaint against those who take more than Rs 1100 for reading out the Khutba (sermon) of Nikah and performing Dua (supplication)—the usual schedule of Muslim marriage contract. 'The Islamic shariat advocates that the Nikah ceremony must be simple, easy, affordable and full of blessings. Then why should the poor families suffer? When all Imams and Muttavallis (caretaker of mosques) come within the domain of the state Waqf Board, this order has been issued to adopt as standard practice,' said Raj, adding that he issued the directive after a Imam refused to perform Nikah of a poor family who couldn't afford to pay Rs 5100.
Time of India
7 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
CG Waqf Board caps ‘Nikah' fee at 1,100 with directive
Raipur: The State Waqf Board has issued a directive capping the fee Imams and Maulanas can charge for conducting nikah (marriage) ceremonies at Rs 1,100. This order, issued by Dr Salim Raj, chairman of the Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board, applies to all Waqf institutions, including mosques, madrasas, and dargahs. T he decision followed complaints received by Dr Raj, including one instance where an imam reportedly refused to solemnise a nikah and left after being denied a payment of Rs 5,100. Taking such grievances seriously, Dr Raj issued the order to ensure Imams and Maulanas do not charge more than Rs 1,100 as a 'nazrana' (offering or gift) for officiating nikahs. The state has over 800 Imams and Maulanas who perform nikahs. The board warned that any violation of this order or receipt of complaints for non-compliance will result in action. Dr Raj said that the primary objective of this directive is to provide relief to economically disadvantaged and poor sections of society. He added that this move aligns with PM Modi's vision of ensuring the rights of the poor are protected.
