The decision to enhance the monthly remuneration to the Imams and Khateebs of shrines and Masjids falling under the jurisdiction of the Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board is an appreciable move and also a first of its kind, thus bringing smiles on the faces of the religious clerics. It is unfortunate that the Imams and Khateebs of the shrines and Masjids were getting a meagre amount of Rs 3000-Rs 4000 per month as remuneration as the successive regimes so far failed to bring some respite to them, despite the fact the meagre amount is not even sufficient to meet the daily needs. However, the Waqf Board headed by Chairperson Dr Darakshan Andrabi has come up with one more positive and appreciable step, by enhancing the remuneration of Imams and Khateebs by 30 per cent, which was the need of the hour as they were facing immense hardships with just a meagre amount to meet the daily needs. Several such steps have been taken by the Waqf Board so far, which have brought transparency in the Waqf administration and also has put an end to the previous lackadaisical attitude. The enhancement in the monthly remuneration should be done at every Masjid for the local Imams and Khateebs, who too are getting a meagre amount. Keeping in view the rates of essentials, there is a need to take decision in this regard at an earliest so that the Imams and Khateebs, who deserve every respect, would heave a sigh of relief.
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