The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 is intended to overcome the shortcomings and to enhance the efficiency of the administration and management of the Waqf properties. The Bill has provision of renaming of the Waqf Act, 1995 as the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995.

The Waqf Amendment Bill is an important legislative move that seeks to amend the existing Waqf Act to improve the management and administration of waqf properties. Waqf, an Islamic endowment of property for religious or charitable purposes, holds significant importance in Muslim communities across India. The proposed amendments aim to streamline the management of these properties and bring transparency to the system.

Key Features of the Waqf Amendment Bill

  1. Transparency in Waqf Property Records: One of the major objectives of the Waqf Amendment Bill is to ensure transparency in the records of waqf properties. It mandates that all waqf properties be registered online, making the records easily accessible and ensuring that the properties are being used for their intended purposes.
  2. Strengthening the Powers of Waqf Boards: The amendment aims to empower state waqf boards with more authority to manage and oversee the use of waqf properties. This includes better mechanisms for resolving disputes and preventing the illegal transfer of waqf properties.
  3. Protecting Waqf Properties from Encroachment: Encroachment has been a major issue affecting waqf properties. The bill seeks to introduce strict penalties for illegal encroachments, making it easier to reclaim waqf land that has been unlawfully occupied.
  4. Establishment of Waqf Tribunals: To deal with legal disputes related to waqf properties more efficiently, the bill proposes the establishment of specialized waqf tribunals. These tribunals would be dedicated to handling waqf-related issues, reducing the burden on regular courts.
  5. Improving Accountability and Governance: The bill places emphasis on improving the governance of waqf institutions by ensuring that their functioning is regularly monitored. It introduces provisions to hold waqf boards accountable for any mismanagement or failure to protect waqf assets.

Implications of the Waqf Amendment Bill

The Waqf Amendment Bill is expected to have far-reaching implications for the Muslim community and the management of religious endowments in India. By introducing stricter regulations and improving transparency, the bill is likely to prevent the misuse of waqf properties and ensure that they are used for the benefit of the community. However, it may also face challenges, particularly from stakeholders who fear that the increased control by waqf boards may lead to bureaucratic hurdles.

Overall, the bill represents a significant step towards modernizing the management of waqf properties, safeguarding them from encroachment, and ensuring that they continue to serve their original charitable purposes.

The Waqf Amendment Bill seeks to bring much-needed reforms to the management of waqf properties. By focusing on transparency, accountability, and protection of waqf assets, the bill could play a vital role in preserving the integrity of these endowments and ensuring their effective utilization.