Proposed Waqf bill 2025: Key amendments to strengthen religious, social welfare

Waqf is an Islamic endowment system where individuals donate property for religious, social, or charitable purposes. In India, Waqf properties play a crucial role in maintaining mosques, madrasas, and welfare institutions. However, historical disruptions, particularly during British rule, led to mismanagement, corruption, and illegal encroachments.

Over the years, multiple legal frameworks have been introduced, including the Waqf Acts of 1954, 1995, and 2013, to regulate Waqf properties. The 2025 amendment is expected to take a more stringent approach in monitoring and ensuring accountability.

Key proposed amendments in Waqf governance

The bill introduces several critical changes to address governance issues:

1. Mandatory Online Recordkeeping – All Waqf properties must be digitally listed within six months, ensuring greater transparency and preventing unauthorized transactions.

2. Increased Oversight by District Magistrates – Authorities will now have the power to verify Waqf property claims, preventing government lands from being wrongly classified as Waqf assets.

3. Verification of Waqf Donations – Donors must prove they have followed Islam for at least five years and that their contribution is voluntary. This aims to prevent coerced or fraudulent donations.

4. Protection of Historic Waqf Properties – A special tribunal will be established to preserve mosques, cemeteries, and dargahs, ensuring their historical status remains intact.

Curbing corruption and mismanagement

The amendments stem from a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) report, which exposed widespread corruption and illegal sales of Waqf properties. To combat this, the bill proposes enhanced government oversight and digital recordkeeping.

Concerns and debates surrounding the amendments

While the reforms aim to increase transparency, they have sparked debates within certain groups. Some concerns include:

• Political Influence in Waqf Boards – Questions remain on how to ensure governance remains independent of political interference.

• Implementation Challenges – Encroachments and legal complexities may pose hurdles in effectively executing the proposed changes.

• Redefining ‘User-Based Waqf’ – A proposed modification to this rule could impact historical properties traditionally considered Waqf without formal documentation.

The future of Waqf properties in India

Waqf properties serve millions of underprivileged individuals by providing education, healthcare, and social welfare. The proposed amendments aim to safeguard these assets while ensuring efficient utilization.

Once passed, the biggest challenge will be effective implementation. If the government and Waqf boards successfully enforce digital transparency, legal protection, and external oversight, these reforms could mark a new era in Waqf administration in India.