Parliament Approves Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024
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On April 4, 2025, the Rajya Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, following its approval in the Lok Sabha on April 3. Introduced by Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on August 8, 2024, the bill seeks to amend the Waqf Act of 1995 to enhance transparency, inclusivity, and efficiency in the management of waqf properties across India.
Key provisions of the amendment include:
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Renaming the Act: The legislation will now be known as the ‘United Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995’ (UWMEED Act 1995).
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Enhanced Representation: The bill mandates the inclusion of at least two Muslim women on both the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards, promoting gender equality. Additionally, it ensures representation from various Muslim sects, including Shia, Sunni, Bohra, and Agakhani communities, to foster sectarian inclusivity.
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Regulatory Oversight: The Central Government is empowered to establish rules for waqf registration, auditing, and accounting, aiming to improve transparency and accountability in waqf management.
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Appeal Mechanism: An appeal process is introduced, allowing decisions made by Waqf tribunals to be challenged in the High Court within 90 days, providing a structured legal recourse.
The bill also repeals the Mussalman Wakf Act of 1923 and clarifies the formation of waqfs, stipulating that only individuals practicing Islam for at least five years and owning the property can declare a waqf. It removes the provision of ‘waqf by user’ and ensures that waqf-alal-aulad does not deny inheritance rights to heirs, including women.
The passage of this bill marks a significant step toward reforming waqf management in India, addressing longstanding issues of transparency, representation, and legal clarity.
