Study OAS ·
Waqf Amendment Bill 2025
- Parliament has passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 after the Rajya Sabha granted its approval following a prolonged debate.
- The Lok Sabha had already given its nod, paving the way for reforms in the management of Waqf properties.
Key Facts and Figures:
- Rajya Sabha Vote: 128 in favor, 95 against.
- Lok Sabha Vote: 288 in favor, 232 against.
- Debate Duration: Approximately 12–17 hours in both houses.
- Board Composition: The Central Waqf Council will include 22 members, with no more than 4 non-Muslims and 3 non-Muslims out of 11 members on the Waqf Board.
Contributing Factors:
- Governance Reforms: The Bill aims to streamline the management and administration of Waqf properties.
- Transparency and Accountability: Provisions include a centralized portal to automate processes and regular audits for institutions earning over ₹1 lakh.
- Social Welfare Focus: The amendment is designed to uplift poor Muslim communities by enhancing the economic and social status of widows, divorced women, and orphans.
Challenges and Opportunities:
Challenges:
- Political Opposition: Critics, including leaders from the Congress and other parties, claim the Bill could lead to communal polarization and anti-secular practices.
- Constitutional Concerns: Some opposition voices argue that the Bill may violate constitutional norms and dilute the rights of certain stakeholders.
Opportunities:
- Inclusive Governance: By incorporating members from diverse communities, the Bill seeks to promote a secular and transparent Waqf system.
- Economic Upliftment: Reduced mandatory contributions (from 7% to 5%) lessen the financial burden on Waqf institutions, potentially enhancing their capacity to serve community needs.
- Modernization: The introduction of a centralized digital platform offers an opportunity for efficient dispute resolution and better coordination with local authorities.
Relevant Government Policies and Legal Framework:
- Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025: Reforms the 1995 law governing Waqf properties by updating administrative procedures, increasing accountability, and ensuring better stakeholder representation.
- Repeal of the Mussalman Wakf Act 1923: The Bill also repeals the outdated Mussalman Wakf Act, modernizing the legal framework to better serve contemporary needs.