President Droupadi Murmu has granted her assent to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, officially enacting it into law.
The bill was passed by both Houses of Parliament after extensive debate and intense political discussions over several weeks. The legislation seeks to curb misuse, encroachment, and unauthorized occupation of Waqf properties across the country.
One major provision mandates inclusion of Pasmanda and economically disadvantaged Muslims on State Waqf Boards for better representation. It also introduces stricter rules for registering, managing, and utilizing Waqf properties to ensure transparency and accountability.
Time-bound resolution of encroachment cases through Waqf Tribunals has also been introduced to speed up legal proceedings. Additionally, the law requires compulsory annual audits of Waqf Boards, with reports submitted directly to State Governments.
The Act prohibits fraudulent or unverified property registrations as Waqf, aiming to prevent property misclassification and legal disputes.
The government asserts that these changes will benefit genuine beneficiaries and support marginalized Muslim communities more effectively. However, the legislation has been met with sharp criticism from several opposition parties and Muslim organizations.
Critics argue the bill is poorly drafted, unconstitutional, and could potentially stir communal disharmony across religious communities.
Congress MP Dr. Syed Naseer Hussain called the bill “misleading and meant to create communal tension” during Parliament debates.
DMK’s Tiruchi Siva described the law as “anti-secular,” and AAP’s Sanjay Singh demanded its immediate withdrawal.
Several Muslim groups have already challenged the Act’s provisions in the Supreme Court, seeking a judicial review.
Despite the opposition, BJP MP Dinesh Sharma defended the law, urging critics to respect Parliament’s decision and not mislead minorities. He said the bill ensures fairness, improved management of Waqf assets, and stronger safeguards against exploitation.
Supporters believe it marks a significant step toward reforming and modernizing Waqf property governance in India.
Implementation details are expected to be announced soon, including new rules for the functioning of Waqf Boards.
Legal experts suggest that Supreme Court hearings could determine the future shape of the controversial legislation. Meanwhile, state governments are preparing to align existing Waqf Boards with the updated legal framework.
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, is now law—its impact will be closely watched in political and community circles alike.
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