Waqf Amendment Act comes into force, Centre issues gazette notification

IANS April 8, 2025 206 views

The Waqf Amendment Act has officially come into force, marking a significant legislative milestone for Muslim property management in India. President Droupadi Murmu's recent assent paves the way for comprehensive reforms in Waqf property administration. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the legislation as a transformative step towards modernization and transparency. However, the act has also triggered legal challenges, with multiple PILs filed challenging its constitutional validity.

"A watershed moment in India's efforts to reform Waqf properties" - Narendra Modi
New Delhi, April 8: The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, officially came into effect on Tuesday following a Gazette notification issued by the Central Government.

Key Points

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- President Murmu approves transformative Waqf property management legislation

The Act received the assent of President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday, two days after its passage in Parliament.

"In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of section 1 of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 (14 of 2025), the Central Government hereby appoints the 8th day of April, 2025 as the date on which the provisions of the said Act shall come into force," read the official notification published in the Gazette of India.

The legislation, which amends key provisions of the original Waqf Act, has introduced a series of significant reforms. These include separation of trusts from Waqf entities; introduction of digital and technological tools for property management; creation of a centralised online portal for better transparency; restriction of Waqf property dedication to practicing Muslims only; protection of 'Waqf by User' properties, historically used by the community; recognition of women's rights in family Waqf, etc.

The Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha in the early hours of Friday, April 4, following a marathon 17-hour debate. The Lok Sabha had cleared the Bill earlier in the week.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the passage of the legislation as a "watershed moment" in India's efforts to reform and modernise the management of Waqf properties.

According to the government, the amended Act aims to bring transparency and accountability in the administration of Waqf properties and ensure equitable representation of all Muslim communities in the functioning of Waqf Boards.

However, the law has sparked strong opposition from several political parties. Opposition leaders have accused the government of using the legislation to further a polarising agenda.

In response to the Act's implementation, multiple Public Interest Litigations (PILs) have been filed in the Supreme Court challenging its constitutional validity.

Anticipating legal pushback, the Centre has filed a caveat in the apex court, requesting that no orders be passed without hearing its side.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Finally some modernization in waqf management! The digital portal and transparency measures are much needed reforms. Hope this helps curb the corruption that was plaguing the system. 👍
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Sadia M.
As a Muslim woman, I'm particularly happy about the recognition of women's rights in family waqf. This is long overdue and will help protect many sisters from property disputes.
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Arjun P.
While the transparency measures are good, I'm concerned about restricting waqf property dedication to practicing Muslims only. Doesn't this go against our constitutional values of equality?
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Fatima Z.
The protection of 'Waqf by User' properties is crucial! So many of our community spaces were under threat. Alhamdulillah for this positive change 🙏
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Vikram S.
Interesting to see both praise and criticism for this Act. The 17-hour debate shows how complex this issue is. Let's wait for the Supreme Court's view before forming strong opinions.
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Irfan A.
The centralised online portal is a game-changer! No more running from office to office for waqf-related work. Digital India benefits reaching all communities 💻

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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Tags:
Waqf Amendment Act Narendra Modi Droupadi Murmu Muslim Property Rights India Legal Reform
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