What You Need to Know About the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 is stirring controversy in India, with political parties clashing over its implications. The bill proposes significant changes to the Waqf Boards Act of 1995, which manages properties designated as Waqf.

What is Waqf Property? Waqf property refers to assets donated for charitable or religious purposes, dedicated in the name of God. This can include both land and buildings used for mosques, schools, graveyards, and shelters. Waqf properties are non-transferable and are intended to benefit communities in perpetuity.

What Does a Waqf Board Do? A Waqf board is a legal body responsible for managing these properties. It appoints custodians to ensure the funds are used correctly. The Central Waqf Council (CWC) oversees these boards, providing advice and ensuring compliance with regulations.

What’s Changing with the New Bill? The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 aims to tighten control over Waqf properties and increase government oversight. Key proposed changes include:

• Mandatory Registration: Waqf properties must now be registered with the District Collector’s Office. This will help in assessing and verifying the property.
• Government Property Exclusion: The bill specifies that any government property declared as Waqf before or after the bill’s enactment will not be considered Waqf property. The District Collector will decide whether a property is Waqf or government land, and their decision will be final.
• Appeals Process: Disputes over Waqf property decisions can now be taken to high courts, offering a higher level of scrutiny.
• Documentation Requirements: The bill removes provisions that allowed properties to be classified as Waqf without formal documentation. Properties lacking valid waqfnama (official documentation) will be treated as suspect until reviewed by the District Collector.
• Audits and Oversight: The Central government will have the authority to order audits of Waqf properties at any time. Additionally, the bill aims to ensure women are represented on the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf boards.

The bill’s introduction has sparked debate, with critics arguing it could undermine Muslim community interests and religious management rights, while supporters claim it addresses necessary regulatory issues.