Srinagar, Mar 31 :
The Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board took control of the Ziyarat Sharief of Sultan-ul-Aarfeen at Gundpora in Bandipora district, ending its local management after an audit examined the handling of funds and properties.
Officials said the takeover includes the shrine and its associated assets, including shops. The action follows complaints from residents, which led to an audit process earlier this year.
“Control of the shrine has been assumed by the Waqf Board. A meeting will be held, and staff will be deputed within a week,” an official said.
He said the status of an affiliated school is under process. Existing caretakers will continue for the time being until new staff is appointed.
The audit was initiated after an order issued on February 10, 2025, under which a four-member committee was formed to examine records and properties of the shrine from 2010-11 onwards.
Officials said the committee reviewed accounts and inspected assets. The findings were later shared with the district administration.
The communication from the Board referred to complaints related to the handling of funds and properties and called for administrative action.
Officials said the audit findings led to the Board’s decision to take control of the shrine.
Earlier communication had stated that the property was not formally notified as a Waqf asset at the time of the inquiry.
With the takeover, the management of the shrine, including its financial and property matters, will now be handled by the Waqf Board.(KNS)
