Today, On 5th April, The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 has now become law after the President of India gave assent on 5th April. It will now be called the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025. This Act brings changes to improve the rules for managing Waqf properties. The aim is to ensure better use and protection of these properties.
New Delhi: The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 has officially become law after receiving the President of India’s assent on April 5, 2025. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 has officially become the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025.
This marks a major reform in the governance of Waqf properties across the country.
The Waqf Act, originally enacted in 1995, governs the administration of Muslim charitable endowments (Waqf properties) in India.
Also Read: LEGAL EXPLAINER| Waqf & The Waqf Amendment Bill 2024: Key Legal Changes & Impact
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which faced significant opposition from various groups, including key Muslim organizations, was approved by the Lok Sabha on Wednesday and the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.
The Waqf Amendment Bill was passed after a 12-hour-long debate, securing 288 votes in favor and 232 against.
Timeline of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025: Key Events and Legislative Journey
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to enhance the management of Waqf properties in India, has undergone a detailed and consultative legislative process before becoming law.
Here’s a comprehensive timeline of its progression:
- August 8, 2024: The Bill was introduced in Parliament, with the Minister-in-charge proposing the establishment of a Joint Committee from both Houses to thoroughly examine its provisions.
- August 9, 2024: The Bill was officially referred to the Joint Committee, which issued a call for public and expert opinions to gather insights on its content.
- August 22, 2024: The Joint Committee held its first meeting, consulting key stakeholders and organizations.
- August 29, 2024: A press release and information memorandum were published in national newspapers as part of a wider communication strategy facilitated by the Central Bureau of Communication.
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- August 2024 to January 2025: The Committee embarked on extensive study visits to various cities across India to understand the ground realities related to Waqf properties.
- January 27, 2025: The Committee began a detailed clause-by-clause analysis of the Bill.
- January 29, 2025: The draft report was adopted.
- January 31, 2025: The report was submitted to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
- February 13, 2025: The report was officially recorded again.
This timeline highlights the comprehensive legislative review, public involvement, and expert consultation that characterized the evolution of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, representing a significant advancement in the governance of Waqf properties in India.
Also Read: Waqf Bill 2024: Concerns Over Retrospective Implementation & Property Disputes
On August 8, 2024, two significant legislative proposals, namely the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, were introduced in the Lok Sabha. These bills aim to enhance the efficiency of Waqf Board operations and ensure better management of Waqf properties across India.
The concept of Waqf in India dates back to the Delhi Sultanate era when Sultan Muizuddin Sam Ghaor dedicated two villages to the Jama Masjid of Multan. Over time, successive Islamic dynasties increased the number of Waqf properties.
These properties are typically donated for religious, educational, or charitable purposes and are managed by Waqf Boards established under the Act. Over the years, problems like corruption, poor management, and illegal occupation have troubled the system, leading to the need for changes and reforms.
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