Understanding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024: History, Reforms & Controversies

The concept of Waqf—an Islamic endowment of property for religious or charitable purposes—has a profound history in India, evolving through various legislative frameworks to address its administration and management.​

Historical Background:

Waqf in India dates back to the early years of the Delhi Sultanate. Notably, Sultan Muizuddin Sam Ghaor (Muhammad Ghori) dedicated villages to the Jama Masjid of Multan, entrusting their administration to the Sheikhul Islam. Over subsequent centuries, numerous such endowments were established, leading to a significant accumulation of Waqf properties across the country.

Legislative Evolution:

• Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923: This was one of the earliest attempts to regulate Waqf properties in India, focusing on ensuring proper management and preventing misappropriation.
• Waqf Act, 1954: Post-independence, this Act was introduced to centralize the administration of Waqf properties, establishing Waqf Boards with executive and quasi-judicial functions. ​
• Amendments in 1964, 1969, and 1984: These amendments aimed to address emerging challenges in Waqf administration, though they faced varying degrees of implementation and acceptance.​
• Waqf Act, 1995: This Act consolidated previous laws, introducing comprehensive measures for the better management of Waqf properties, including mandatory surveys and the establishment of Central and State Waqf Boards.

Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024:

In August 2024, the Indian government introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, proposing significant changes to the existing framework:​

• Inclusion of Non-Muslim Members: The bill suggests incorporating non-Muslim members into the Central Waqf Council, aiming to promote diversity and transparency.
• Governmental Oversight: It grants the government authority to determine ownership of disputed Waqf properties, a move intended to curb corruption but viewed by critics as potential overreach.
• Renaming the Act: The bill proposes renaming the principal act to the ‘United Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995’ (UWMEED Act 1995). ​

Controversies and Criticisms:

The proposed amendments have sparked debates and protests:

• Community Concerns: Many in the Muslim community perceive the inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf Boards and increased government control as infringements on their religious rights and autonomy.
• Opposition Stance: Opposition parties argue that the bill could lead to the confiscation of historic mosques and properties, undermining minority rights.
• Government’s Justification: Proponents contend that the amendments aim to enhance transparency, reduce corruption, and ensure better management of Waqf assets. ​

Conclusion:

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, represents a pivotal moment in the governance of Waqf properties in India. Balancing the objectives of transparency and efficiency with the preservation of religious rights remains a complex challenge, necessitating inclusive dialogue among all stakeholders.