New Waqf Law Brings Big Changes to Property Rules
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A new law called the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 officially started on April 8. This law deals with waqf properties, which are lands or buildings donated for religious or community use, mostly by Muslims.
The law was signed by the President and passed by both houses of Parliament after a long 17-hour discussion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it a big step toward better management of religious properties.
The new rules say:
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Religious trusts and Waqf groups will be treated separately.
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All property records will be made digital.
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A new website will help manage these properties more clearly.
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Only practicing Muslims can donate land as Waqf.
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Women’s rights in family Waqf property are now protected.
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Old community-used properties without papers will be safeguarded.
Some people support the law because it uses technology and brings fairness. But others worry it may cause problems and have gone to the Supreme Court to challenge it.
The government has promised the law will help protect community property and make sure it’s used properly for everyone’s benefit.
