Lok Sabha Passes Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 | Key Provisions

In a significant legislative development, India's Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, during an early morning session on April 3, 2025. The bill, which seeks to reform the management of waqf properties—Islamic charitable endowments—was approved after a marathon 12-hour debate, with 288 members voting in favor and 232 against.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

Inclusion of Non-Muslim Members: The amendment introduces non-Muslim representation in the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards, mandating at least two non-Muslim members in each body. This move aims to promote diversity and enhance administrative efficiency.
Reduction in Mandatory Contributions: The bill reduces the obligatory contribution of waqf institutions to waqf boards from 7% to 5%, aiming to alleviate financial burdens on these institutions.
Enhanced Oversight and Auditing: Waqf institutions with annual incomes exceeding ₹1 lakh will now be subject to audits by state-appointed auditors, a measure designed to increase transparency and accountability in the management of waqf properties.
Application of the Limitation Act, 1963: The amendment brings waqf property claims under the purview of the Limitation Act, 1963, potentially reducing prolonged litigation and streamlining dispute resolution processes.

Government's Perspective:

Proponents of the bill, including members of the ruling party, argue that these amendments will introduce much-needed reforms to combat corruption and improve the management of waqf properties. Minister of Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, emphasized that the inclusion of non-Muslim members is intended to bring diverse administrative expertise to the boards without interfering in religious matters.

Opposition and Criticism:

The bill has faced strong opposition from various quarters. Critics, including members of the opposition Congress party and several Muslim organizations, contend that the inclusion of non-Muslims in waqf boards could undermine Muslim autonomy over their charitable endowments. They express concerns that this may lead to increased government control over waqf properties and potentially result in the confiscation of historic mosques and other religious sites lacking formal documentation.

Rahul Gandhi, leader of the opposition, labeled the bill as a "weapon aimed at marginalizing Muslims and usurping their personal laws and property rights."

Following its passage in the Lok Sabha, the bill is scheduled to be tabled in the Rajya Sabha for further debate and approval. Given the contentious nature of the amendments, another extensive discussion is anticipated in the Upper House.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, has ignited a nationwide debate on the balance between administrative reforms and the preservation of minority rights, highlighting the complexities involved in managing religious endowments in a diverse society.