LUCKNOW, April 12 -- Bihar governor Arif Mohammed Khan on Saturday called for a relook at the functioning of Waqf institutions, saying an amendment to the existing law was necessary. He questioned whether Waqf properties in Lucknow were serving the purpose for which they were originally meant-public welfare, especially for the poor, widows, and the elderly.

"What is Waqf?" he asked while interacting with journalists at National PG College. "Waqf means charity, something that is to be donated. How many charitable institutions are there? Are there any hospitals? Is there any big educational institution being run through Waqf in Lucknow?"

He added, "What can be said when the objectives of Waqf properties are diverted? You are saying it is ...