Strengthening Waqf Governance: India’s 2025 Reforms for Transparency and Community Empowerment
India's Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025: Reforming Islamic Endowment Governance
On April 5, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu approved the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, bringing changes to how Waqf properties are managed in India. Waqf is an Islamic practice where property is donated for religious or charitable purposes. The new law, also called the UMEED Act, aims to make Waqf administration more efficient, transparent, and inclusive.
India has around 870,000 Waqf properties spread over 940,000 acres, but many face issues like poor management, disputes, and illegal occupation. The new law tries to fix these problems while keeping the spirit of Waqf alive.
Waqf properties currently generate ₹163 crore annually against a potential ₹6,000 crore, highlighting the need for better management. The Act aims to unlock this potential while ensuring the properties serve their intended charitable purposes.
The legislation introduces several measures designed to promote inclusivity, transparency, and efficiency in Waqf management:
1. Diverse Representation: Waqf Boards and the Central Waqf Council will now include up to two non-Muslim members and at least two Muslim women, broadening expertise and perspectives in decision-making.
2. Clear Guidelines for Dedication: Only individuals practicing Islam for at least five years may create a Waqf, with provisions to protect the inheritance rights of heirs, particularly women, ensuring fairness.
3. Enhanced Oversight: District Collectors will assist in classifying properties as Waqf or government-owned, aiming to resolve disputes with clarity and impartiality.
4. Digital Accountability: Mutawallis (caretakers) are required to register Waqf properties on a central portal within six months, with mandatory audits for institutions earning over ₹1 lakh annually to ensure financial transparency.
5. Support for Communities: The contribution from Waqf institutions to boards has been reduced from 7% to 5%, allowing more resources to flow toward charitable initiatives.
6. Judicial Access: Appeals against Waqf Tribunal decisions can now be filed in High Courts within 90 days, offering an additional avenue for resolution.
The government has emphasized that the Act aligns with a vision of inclusive development, aiming to benefit underserved sections of society, such as widows, orphans, and marginalized communities. However, the reforms have sparked constructive dialogue among various stakeholders.
Positive Aspects:
- Expected to stop misuse of Waqf land and ensure fair management
- Digital registration will create a transparent database of properties
- Reduced fees mean more funds available for charitable work
- Clearer dispute resolution mechanisms through District Collectors
Areas of Debate:
- Some question the inclusion of non-Muslim members in Waqf governance
- Concerns about potential interference in religious autonomy
- Legal petitions filed in Supreme Court challenging certain provisions
- Implementation challenges for digital registration in rural areas
The Rajya Sabha vote (128 in favor, 95 against) reflected diverse perspectives on the legislation, with opposition leaders calling for more consultation with religious scholars.
The Waqf (Amendment) Act is now law, marking the start of a new chapter in Islamic endowment management. Here's what to expect in the coming months:
1. Digital Transition (Next 6 months): All Waqf properties must be registered on the central portal, creating India's first comprehensive database of Islamic endowments.
2. Governance Reforms (Next 12 months): Waqf Boards will be reconstituted to include the new mandatory members, bringing fresh perspectives to decision-making.
3. Dispute Resolution (Ongoing): District Collectors will begin the process of classifying disputed properties, potentially resolving long-standing conflicts.
4. Judicial Review: The Supreme Court petition filed on April 4, 2025 may lead to certain provisions being examined for constitutional validity.
The government has emphasized that the reforms will be implemented in consultation with stakeholders, with room for adjustments based on feedback and judicial pronouncements.
A New Era for Waqf Management
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 represents a significant step toward modernizing the management of Islamic endowments while preserving their religious character. By addressing long-standing issues of transparency, governance and dispute resolution, the legislation aims to unlock the full potential of Waqf properties for community welfare.
As India's 870,000 Waqf properties transition to this new framework, the coming years will reveal how effectively the balance is maintained between administrative efficiency and religious sanctity. The UMEED Act carries the promise of empowered communities and better-utilized resources, but its success will depend on collaborative implementation that respects both the letter and spirit of Waqf.
Join the Discussion
What are your thoughts on the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025? How do you think it will impact community welfare and religious endowments in India? Share your perspectives on this important reform!