Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday (April 2, 2025). The bill, based on recommendations from a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), aims to modernize Waqf property administration through technological advancements and legal clarity.
Highlighting the extensive consultation process, Rijiju stated that the JPC received over 97.27 lakh petitions and memorandums, reviewing each before finalizing its report. Additionally, 284 delegations, including Waqf boards from 25 States and Union Territories, legal experts, scholars, and religious representatives, shared their insights.
Addressing concerns, Rijiju clarified that the bill strictly focuses on property matters, not religious affairs. He accused the opposition of misleading the public, emphasizing that amendments were necessary due to previous legal changes that gave Waqf laws supremacy over other statutes.
Key provisions include ensuring that trusts established by Muslims under any law are no longer classified as Waqf, granting them full ownership. Only practising Muslims (for at least five years) can dedicate property to Waqf, restoring pre-2013 norms. Additionally, women must receive their inheritance before a Waqf declaration, with special provisions for widows, divorcees, and orphans.
A senior government official, rather than Waqf tribunals, will now determine ownership disputes between Waqf and government properties. Furthermore, the bill proposes including non-Muslim representatives in Waqf boards to promote inclusivity.
Despite opposition resistance, Speaker Om Birla dismissed objections, asserting the government’s authority to introduce amendments. Union Home Minister Amit Shah defended the bill, stating it underwent thorough deliberation before cabinet approval.
