Waqf Amendment Act 2025 Comes into Force Nationwide
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, passed by Parliament last week, came into effect across the country from Tuesday. The Act introduces significant reforms in the administration and transparency of waqf properties nationwide, aiming to curb misuse and improve governance.
According to the Ministry of Minority Affairs, the amended law was enacted following the President's assent last Friday. The Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha and later passed by both Houses after being cleared by the Union Cabinet on April 5.
The Act amends the original Waqf Act of 1995, which governs the maintenance of waqf property records and dispute resolution. The new law includes provisions for streamlining digital recordkeeping, accountability, and improved oversight of waqf boards.
Key Changes Introduced:
- Inclusion of non-Muslims in waqf boards.
- Mandatory representation for women, Shia, Pasmanda, and other minority communities in waqf boards.
- Power to formulate rules for registration and auditing of waqf board accounts.
- All waqf records to be uploaded on a centralized portal.
Additionally, it mandates compliance with audit and financial transparency standards. Local-level waqf committees and officers are to be held accountable for implementation.
Controversy and Opposition
However, the Act has drawn criticism from various Muslim organizations. More than 10 groups, including the All India Muslim Personal Law Board and Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, have voiced strong opposition and are considering a constitutional challenge in the Supreme Court.
Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind President Maulana Arshad Madani urged Muslims not to protest on the streets, stating:
“Avoid public demonstrations. This is a legal matter. Let us fight it constitutionally.”
A writ petition has already been filed by these groups against the new law.
Government’s Clarification
The government has maintained that the law is aimed at ensuring transparency and eliminating corruption in waqf property management. The centralized digital record system, it claims, will make waqf dealings more efficient and accountable.
