President Droupadi Murmu gives assent to Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025


​On April 6, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu granted assent to the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the management and governance of Waqf properties in India. This legislation introduces substantial reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, inclusivity, and oversight within Waqf institutions

Understanding Waqf

Waqf refers to the dedication of property by Muslims for religious, charitable, or pious purposes, rendering it inalienable and ensuring its benefits serve the community perpetually. In India, Waqf properties encompass vast assets, including land and buildings, managed by Waqf Boards under the Waqf Act of 1995. These properties support various institutions such as mosques, madrasas, and charitable organizations.

Key Provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025

  • Inclusion of Non-Muslim Members: The Act mandates the inclusion of non-Muslim members in both the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards. This move aims to promote diversity and broader representation in the administration of Waqf properties.

  • Enhanced Government Oversight: The legislation empowers government authorities to determine the ownership of disputed Waqf properties, a function previously under the purview of Waqf Boards. This change is intended to address disputes more effectively and ensure proper management of these assets. ​

  • Mandatory Property Verification: The Act introduces stricter verification processes for properties claimed as Waqf. This measure seeks to prevent unauthorized claims and ensure that only legitimate properties are designated as Waqf.

  • Abolition of Oral Declarations: To enhance transparency, the Act abolishes the practice of declaring Waqf through oral statements. Instead, it requires formal documentation for the establishment of Waqf properties, reducing ambiguities and potential disputes. ​

  • Representation of Women: A significant reform is the mandatory inclusion of Muslim women in Waqf Boards and the Central Waqf Council. This provision aims to empower women and ensure their participation in the governance of Waqf properties.

  • Political and Community Reactions

  • The enactment of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, has elicited diverse reactions:​

    • Government's Stance: The ruling administration asserts that the amendments are designed to curb corruption, enhance transparency, and make the management of Waqf properties more inclusive and efficient.

    • Opposition and Critics: Opposition parties and several Muslim organizations have expressed concerns that the Act infringes upon the constitutional rights of Muslims and could lead to government overreach in religious affairs. They argue that including non-Muslims in Waqf Boards and increasing governmental control may undermine the autonomy of Waqf institutions. ​

    • Community Concerns: Some Muslim groups fear that the new verification requirements and the abolition of oral declarations might lead to the loss of historically significant properties, especially those lacking formal documentation.

    • Implications for Waqf Management

      The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, introduces several implications:​

      • Transparency and Accountability: By mandating formal documentation and stricter verification processes, the Act aims to reduce fraudulent claims and mismanagement of Waqf properties.​

      • Inclusivity: The inclusion of non-Muslims and women in Waqf governance structures is intended to diversify perspectives and promote equitable management.​

      • Governmental Authority: Granting government bodies the power to determine property ownership in disputes centralizes authority, which supporters argue will lead to more impartial resolutions, while critics fear potential overreach.

      Conclusion

      The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, represents a significant shift in the governance of Waqf properties in India. While it seeks to introduce transparency, inclusivity, and better oversight, it also raises concerns about autonomy and potential governmental overreach. The success of this legislation will depend on its implementation and the extent to which it balances reform with respect for religious and community sentiments.

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