The government notified new rules for waqf property registration, audits, and digital management. The Waqf rules 2025 also ensure support for widows, divorced women, and orphans.
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NEW DELHI: In a significant move towards enhancing transparency and accountability in the management of waqf properties across India, the Central Government has launched the Unified Waqf Rules 2025.
These rules aim to modernise and streamline the administration of waqf assets, which are charitable properties donated for religious or philanthropic purposes under Islamic law.
On 3rd July 2025, the Central Government officially issued the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Rules, 2025, through Notification No. GSR 442(E) under the powers given by Section 108B of the Waqf Act, 1995 (43 of 1995). These rules are a huge step towards modernizing and digitalizing the waqf system in India.
Key Developments in Waqf Rules 2025
A new digital portal and centralized database is launched to handle all waqf-related matters like:
- Registration of new waqfs
- Uploading of waqf property lists
- Court cases tracking
- Annual income-expenditure reporting
- Property encroachment reports
- Audit reports, board orders, and more
“Each waqf and waqf property will be given a unique identification number which will help track and monitor them all across India.”
The portal also supports accessibility for divyang (disabled) persons to ensure inclusive access and navigation.
“The portal and database shall be designed and developed to enable the persons with disabilities also to perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with the portal and database.”
Enrolment for Mutawallis Made Easy
Every mutawalli (waqf manager) must register using a mobile number and email via OTP. He can then:
- Upload full details of his waqf and properties
- File financial reports
- Maintain updated records
If a mutawalli changes, the new one will be responsible for updating the mobile/email.
“Each mutawalli shall enrol on the portal and database by using his mobile number and e-mail address… and thereafter be able to access the portal and database.”
Real-Time Monitoring & Legal Compliance
This portal allows for real-time monitoring of waqf properties, their usage, and any duplication of data entries. Any complaints will be handled via a set redressal mechanism.
“The functioning of the portal and database shall be reviewed at the end of every financial year by an independent agency.”
The report will be submitted within 3 months and its actions will be made public.
“The Central Government shall publish the report of the agency and action taken report on the recommendations… within a period of three months.”
Social Welfare from Waqf-Alal-Aulad
If there is no heir in a waqf-alal-aulad (family waqf), the property income will now help widows, divorced women, and orphans. This social justice move allows them to apply for support using Form-1.
“Waqf-Alal-Aulad’s income… shall also be used for welfare or maintenance of widows, divorced women and orphans.”
Their identity and proof documents must be attached. A mutawalli or board will verify and approve the claim.
“The applicant shall apply to the Chief Executive Officer in Form-1… and if satisfied, the Board may order such support from a specific waqf.”
The payment will only be made digitally to the applicant’s bank account, ensuring transparency and traceability.
“The concerned waqf shall make the payment… only through electronic transfer into the bank account of the applicant.”
Strict Rules for Waqf Property Data Upload
Details like:
- Property size and location
- Owner or occupier’s name
- Current income and tax status
- Legal disputes
- Photographs of properties
…must be uploaded by mutawallis as part of the compliance.
If these are not uploaded on time, mutawallis must seek extension by giving valid reasons.
“In case a mutawalli fails to file… he shall seek time extension from the authority.”
Uploading List of Auqaf (Waqf Properties)
State Governments, after surveys, will publish a list of waqf properties and upload them within 90 days. If delayed, reasons must be given in writing.
“The list of auqaf and the details… shall be uploaded by the officer authorised by the State Government within ninety days.”
Online Filing of Annual Accounts
Every mutawalli is now responsible for uploading annual financial statements and records via the portal.
“The mutawalli shall prepare and maintain the complete and accurate books of accounts… in Form-6 and submit electronically.”
If the waqf’s income is less than ₹1 lakh, simplified forms will be allowed.
Digital Audit Reports & Board Orders
All audit reports (under Section 47) and board activities or orders (under Section 48) must be published digitally for transparency.
“Board shall publish the audit report on the portal and database.”
“Board shall publish all proceedings and orders… within ten working days.”
Budget Limit for the Board
“The maximum amount for the purpose of tentative annual budget under section 72(1) of the Act shall be ₹1 crore.”
This rule now puts a clear cap on board expenditures, promoting better financial discipline.
Click Here to Read Previous Reports on Waqf
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