What is the Waqf Amendment Bill ACT 2025? Here's the Update

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 is a landmark legislative proposal aimed at reforming the administration of Waqf properties in India. Introduced by the Indian government to amend the Waqf Act of 1995, the bill has triggered national debate due to its far-reaching implications on religious rights, governance, and land ownership.

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What is Waqf?

Waqf refers to an Islamic endowment of immovable property for religious or charitable use, such as mosques, madrasas, hospitals, and graveyards. These properties are managed by Waqf Boards at both state and central levels.

Key Highlights of the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025

• Renaming of the Act: The Waqf Act is renamed as the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Act.

• Inclusion of Non-Muslim Members: Non-Muslim members will be added to both Central and State Waqf Boards.

• Dispute Resolution Power to District Collectors: Disputes over Waqf land can now be resolved by district collectors, replacing exclusive tribunal jurisdiction.

• Updated Waqf Registration Process: A centralized digital portal will handle waqf registration, survey, audit, and lease management.

• Removal of Section 40: This eliminates the Waqf Board’s ability to unilaterally declare private property as Waqf.

Why is the Bill Controversial? 

Many Muslim organizations view the inclusion of non-Muslims and the expanded role of district officials as a breach of religious autonomy. Mass protests have occurred across India, and certain provisions have been challenged in the Supreme Court, where proceedings are ongoing.

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Stakeholder Consultations and Committee Review T

he bill was introduced on August 8, 2024, and reviewed by a Joint Parliamentary Committee comprising 31 members. The committee held 38 sittings, consulted over 25 state Waqf Boards, and received over 9.7 million public responses. Comparative studies of international Waqf practices were also conducted.

Reforms for Transparency and Accountability

• Introduction of strict audit requirements for properties earning over ₹1 lakh.

• Reduction of annual Waqf contributions from 7% to 5%.

• Mandated digital property registration by Mutawallis within six months.

• Enhanced roles for women and backward-class Muslims in board representation.

Impact on Property Rights 

Several incidents have surfaced where non-Muslim properties were controversially declared as Waqf. The bill introduces clearer rules, requiring government scrutiny before such declarations can be made. High-profile land disputes in Karnataka, Bihar, and Kerala have added urgency to these reforms.

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How the Bill Helps the Poor 

By digitizing property records and ensuring financial accountability, the bill is expected to unlock underutilized Waqf lands for public welfare projects like schools, hospitals, and housing. It strengthens the redistribution mechanism towards marginalized communities.

Non-Muslim Representation: Role and Scope 

Non-Muslims are included to enhance transparency in administrative and economic governance. Their roles are limited to oversight and advisory functions and do not interfere in religious decisions. This mirrors global practices where government oversight exists for charitable trusts.

Conclusion 

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 represents a structural shift in how religious endowments are managed in India. While it promises modernization, accountability, and socio-economic upliftment, it must balance these goals against concerns of religious interference. The future of the bill will likely be shaped by legal outcomes, public sentiment, and its real-world implementation.

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FAQ

1. What is the main purpose of the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025?

To improve governance, digitize records, include broader representation, and prevent misuse of Waqf laws.

2. Why is the inclusion of non-Muslims in the Waqf Board controversial?

It is seen by some as interference in religious matters, though their roles are administrative.

3. How does the bill help prevent misuse of Waqf property?

It removes arbitrary powers, enforces audits, and digitizes records to enhance transparency.

4. What happens to disputed properties under the new bill?

Disputes will be resolved by district collectors under state revenue laws, with appeals possible in High Courts.

5. Will the Waqf Bill 2025 affect non-Muslim communities?

Yes, indirectly. The bill aims to prevent wrongful Waqf claims over non-Muslim properties through stronger safeguards.