The Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 or more formally written as the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introduced in the Lok Sabha on April 2, 2025, proposes significant changes to the management and administration of waqf properties in India.
Also read: What is Waqf Board?
Table of Contents
Key Provisions of the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025
- Inclusion of Non-Muslim Members: The bill proposes the inclusion of non-Muslim members in the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards, aiming to promote inclusivity and transparency in the management of waqf properties.
- Determination of Property Ownership: It empowers government authorities to determine the ownership of disputed waqf properties, a role previously held by waqf boards. This provision seeks to address disputes over property ownership more effectively.
- Abolition of Section 40: The bill seeks to abolish Section 40 of the Waqf Act, which allowed waqf boards to declare any property as waqf based on their assessment. This change aims to prevent potential misuse and unauthorized conversion of properties into waqf assets.
- Renaming of the Act: The bill proposes renaming the Waqf Act to the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Act, reflecting its broader objectives of reform and development.
Government’s Point of View on Waqf Amendment Bill 2025
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who introduced the bill, stated that these amendments aim to curb corruption, enhance efficiency, and ensure better utilization of waqf properties for the benefit of the Muslim community.
Opposition and Criticism of Waqf Amendment Bill 2025
The bill has faced criticism from opposition parties and various Muslim organizations. Critics argue that the inclusion of non-Muslim members and the transfer of property determination powers to government authorities could undermine the autonomy of waqf institutions and infringe upon minority rights. Concerns have been raised that these changes may lead to governmental overreach into religious affairs.
Reuters
Current Status:
As of April 2, 2025, the bill is under discussion in the Lok Sabha. Its passage will depend on parliamentary debates and voting outcomes.
This bill represents a significant shift in the governance of waqf properties in India, aiming to balance administrative efficiency with the protection of minority rights.
Also read: Central Waqf Council
Waqf Amendment Bill to be tabled in Lok Sabha
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