The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025

April 03, 2025

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introduced by Central Government - the proposes significant changes to the management of waqf properties—charitable endowments in Islamic tradition. The bill aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and inclusivity in the administration of these properties.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

Inclusivity in Waqf Boards: The bill mandates the inclusion of non-Muslim members in both the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards. This measure aims to promote diversity and ensure broader oversight in the management of waqf properties. Home Minister Amit Shah clarified that non-Muslim members would focus on administrative functions, ensuring that donations are utilized as intended without interfering in religious matters.
Government Oversight on Property Titles: The legislation empowers the government to determine the ownership of disputed waqf properties. This provision seeks to address issues related to property disputes and encroachments, aiming to safeguard waqf assets from potential misuse.
Gender and Sectarian Representation: The bill introduces reforms to ensure gender equality by mandating the representation of at least two Muslim women on the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards. It also promotes sectarian inclusivity by requiring representation from various Muslim sects, including Shia, Sunni, Bohra, and Aghakani communities.
Enhanced Transparency and Accountability: To address concerns about corruption and mismanagement, the bill proposes the establishment of a central portal for the registration of waqfs, along with standardized procedures for auditing and account maintenance. An appeal process is also introduced, allowing decisions made by waqf tribunals to be challenged in the High Court within 90 days.
Result of Vote in the parliament, last late night: 288 vote in favour of Waqf Bill and 232 for non-implantation of the bill.

Controversies and Concerns:

The bill has sparked significant controversy and debate:

Inclusion of Non-Muslims in Waqf Boards: While the government argues that including non-Muslims aims to promote diversity and curb corruption, critics view this as an infringement on the autonomy of Muslim religious institutions. They express concerns that non-Muslim members might influence decisions related to religious matters.

Government Control Over Property Titles: The provision granting the government authority to determine ownership of disputed waqf properties raises alarms about potential state overreach and the risk of historic mosques and properties being confiscated. Opponents fear this could lead to the erosion of Muslim property rights and the undermining of religious institutions. Representation and Inclusivity: While the bill aims for greater inclusivity, some argue that mandating representation quotas might lead to tokenism rather than genuine empowerment. There are also concerns about the practical implementation of these provisions and whether they truly reflect the diverse demographics of the Muslim community.

Parliamentary Process:

The bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha (Lower House) on August 8, 2024. After extensive debates and discussions, it was passed with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. The bill is now under review in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House), where further deliberations are ongoing. If approved, it will be sent to President Droupadi Murmu for assent before becoming law. Conclusion:

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, represents a significant attempt to reform the management of waqf properties in India. While it aims to introduce much-needed transparency, efficiency, and inclusivity, it also raises important questions about religious autonomy, government intervention, and the protection of minority rights. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will be crucial to address these concerns to ensure that the reforms serve the best interests of all stakeholders involved.

Source of Inforamtion:

1. 1. AP News+3AP News+3Wikipedia+3