The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025, passed by the Indian Parliament on April 3, 2025, has become a topic of intense discussion across the nation. This legislation, which reforms the Waqf Act of 1995, aims to improve the management of Waqf properties—lands or assets donated by Muslims for religious, charitable, or community purposes. Waqf properties have been a vital part of Islamic philanthropy in India, supporting mosques, schools, orphanages, and other community initiatives. However, the new amendments have introduced significant changes, sparking both support and criticism. In this article, we’ll dive into the after-effects of the Waqf Bill in India, exploring its impact on governance, the Muslim community, and social harmony in a way that’s easy for everyone to understand.
What is the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025?
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025, also known as the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Act, was introduced to modernize the administration of Waqf properties. India has over 870,000 Waqf properties, spanning approximately 940,000 acres of land, making Waqf boards the third-largest property holders in the country after the Indian Railways and the Armed Forces. These properties, valued at over ₹100,000 crore, are meant to serve the community by funding religious and charitable activities.
The bill was passed after heated debates in both houses of Parliament, with 288 votes in favor and 232 against in the Lok Sabha, and 128 votes in favor and 95 against in the Rajya Sabha. The amendments address long-standing issues like mismanagement, corruption, illegal land occupation, and disputes over property ownership. Key changes include mandatory digital registration of all Waqf properties, the inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf boards, and the removal of the "Waqf by user" provision for future claims, which previously allowed properties to be recognized as Waqf based on long-term use.
Positive After-Effects of the Waqf Bill
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 has been praised by its supporters for bringing much-needed reforms to Waqf property management. Here are some of the positive outcomes that have started to emerge:
- Improved Transparency and Accountability: One of the most significant changes is the mandatory registration of all Waqf properties on a centralized digital portal within six months of the law’s enactment. This step aims to reduce corruption and mismanagement by ensuring that all properties are documented and accessible for scrutiny. For instance, digitized records have already helped resolve disputes over 330,000 properties, bringing clarity to ownership and usage.
- Better Utilization of Waqf Assets: The bill encourages Waqf boards to use their properties more effectively for community welfare. By streamlining management, the government hopes to ensure that the revenue generated from these properties—estimated at ₹10,000 crore annually—is used for education, healthcare, and other charitable causes. For example, in states like Uttar Pradesh, Waqf boards have started planning new schools and skill development centers on previously underutilized land.
- Reduction in Illegal Encroachment: The amendments empower district magistrates to oversee Waqf property disputes, reducing the backlog of cases in Waqf tribunals. This has led to faster resolution of illegal encroachments, with over 15,000 acres of Waqf land reclaimed in the first three months after the bill’s passage. This move has been welcomed by many who see it as a way to protect Waqf assets for their intended purpose.
- Empowerment of Women: The bill mandates the inclusion of at least two women in Waqf boards, a step toward gender inclusivity. This change has been seen as progressive, giving women a voice in the management of Waqf properties and ensuring that their perspectives are considered in decision-making processes.
Challenges and Concerns Post-Waqf Bill
While the bill has its benefits, it has also faced significant criticism, particularly from Muslim organizations and opposition parties. Here are some of the challenges and concerns that have arisen:
- Perceived Threat to Religious Autonomy: One of the most controversial aspects of the bill is the inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf boards and the Central Waqf Council. Critics argue that this undermines the religious autonomy of the Muslim community, as Waqf properties are deeply tied to Islamic traditions. For example, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has called the bill “an attack on Muslim identity,” claiming that it gives the government excessive control over Waqf affairs.
- Fear of Misuse of Power: The provision allowing district magistrates to have the final say in Waqf property disputes has raised concerns about potential misuse of power. Some fear that this could lead to biased decisions, especially in areas where communal tensions are high. In states like Karnataka, protests erupted after the bill’s passage, with community leaders expressing worries about the government’s intentions.
- Impact on Small Waqf Properties: The mandatory digital registration process, while aimed at transparency, has posed challenges for smaller Waqf properties, especially in rural areas. Many of these properties lack proper documentation, and the six-month deadline has put pressure on local Waqf boards. In Maharashtra, for instance, over 40% of small Waqf properties are still unregistered due to a lack of resources and awareness.
- Social Tensions: The bill has also contributed to social tensions in some regions. In areas with a history of communal conflict, the amendments have been politicized, leading to protests and counter-protests. For example, in Hyderabad, clashes between community groups and local authorities were reported during a survey of Waqf properties, highlighting the challenges of implementing the bill without causing friction.
Impact on the Muslim Community
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 has had a mixed impact on the Muslim community in India. On one hand, the reforms have the potential to improve the management of Waqf properties, ensuring that their benefits reach the community more effectively. For instance, better-managed Waqf assets could lead to more funding for schools, hospitals, and orphanages, directly benefiting underprivileged Muslims.
On the other hand, the bill has created a sense of unease among many Muslims, who feel that their religious rights are being encroached upon. The inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf boards and the increased government oversight have been seen by some as an attempt to dilute the community’s control over its own institutions. This sentiment has been particularly strong in states like Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, where Muslim organizations have held rallies to demand the bill’s repeal.
Long-Term Effects on Governance and Social Harmony
In the long term, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 could reshape the governance of Waqf properties in India. If implemented effectively, the reforms could set a precedent for transparent management of religious endowments, potentially inspiring similar changes in other sectors. The digital portal, for example, could become a model for managing other types of charitable trusts, ensuring accountability across the board.
However, the bill’s success will depend on how the government addresses the concerns of the Muslim community and ensures that the reforms are implemented fairly. If the perception of bias or overreach persists, it could deepen mistrust between communities, affecting social harmony. To avoid this, the government will need to engage with community leaders, provide support for smaller Waqf boards, and ensure that the bill’s provisions are not misused.
How Can Communities Adapt to the Changes?
For communities affected by the Waqf Bill, adaptation will be key. Here are a few steps that can help:
- Awareness Campaigns: Local Waqf boards should conduct awareness campaigns to educate people about the new registration process and the benefits of the reforms.
- Community Dialogue: Open discussions between government officials, Waqf boards, and community leaders can help address concerns and build trust.
- Legal Support: Providing legal assistance to smaller Waqf properties can ensure that they meet the registration requirements without losing their assets.
- Monitoring Implementation: Civil society groups can play a role in monitoring the implementation of the bill to ensure that it is fair and transparent.
Final Thoughts: A Balancing Act for the Future
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 is a landmark piece of legislation that has the potential to transform the management of Waqf properties in India. While it brings much-needed transparency and efficiency, it also raises valid concerns about religious autonomy and social harmony. As India moves forward in 2025, the government, Waqf boards, and communities will need to work together to ensure that the bill’s benefits are realized without compromising the rights and sentiments of the Muslim community. By striking a balance between reform and respect for tradition, the Waqf Bill can pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
