New Delhi: The Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 officially came into effect today after President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to the legislation. The bill, which was passed by both Houses of Parliament last week, aims to overhaul the management of Waqf properties by improving governance, transparency, and coordination with local authorities, while safeguarding heritage sites and promoting social welfare.
The Waqf (Amendment) Act seeks to establish a more transparent and accountable framework for Waqf administration, with a focus on protecting stakeholders’ rights and ensuring a secular management system. However, despite the government’s assurances, the law has faced significant opposition.
The Supreme Court is set to hear a batch of petitions challenging the law on April 16. The petitions, which have already been filed, contest various provisions of the legislation. In response, the government has filed a caveat in the top court, requesting that no orders be passed without hearing its side of the argument.
So far, 15 petitions have been filed, including objections raised by opposition parties and some sections of the Muslim community, particularly concerning certain amendments in the law. The most contentious provisions include the mandatory inclusion of two non-Muslim members in the Central Waqf Council and Waqf Boards, as well as a clause requiring individuals to have practiced Islam for at least five years before donating property to Waqf.
Another contentious provision in the amended law states that government property identified as Waqf will no longer belong to the government, with local Collectors determining its ownership.
The government has emphasized that the law is focused on property management and does not interfere with religious practices. The BJP has defended the bill, stating that it was developed through wide consultations and has garnered support from non-Muslim minorities. Despite the government’s assurances, the law remains a subject of debate and legal scrutiny.
