The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025

• The Act allows waqf to be formed by: (i) declaration, (ii) recognition based on long-term use (waqf by user), or (iii) endowment when the line of succession ends (waqf-alal-aulad). The Bill states that only a person practising Islam for at least five years may declare a waqf. It clarifies that the person must own the property being declared. It removes waqf by user. It also adds that waqf-alal-aulad must not result in denial of inheritance rights to the donor's heir including women heirs.
• Omitting the provisions relating to the “waqf by user”.
• Providing the functions of the Survey Commissioner to the Collector or any other officer not below the rank of Deputy Collector duly nominated by the Collector for the survey of waqf properties.
• Providing for a broad-based composition of the world Waqf Council and the State Waqf Boards and ensuring the representation of Muslim women and non-Muslims.
• Providing for establishment of separate Board of Auqaf for Boharas and Aghakhanis.
• Providing for representation of Shia, Sunni, Bohra, Agakhani and other backward classes among Muslim communities.
• Streamlining the manner of registration of waqfs through a central portal and database.
• Providing for a detailed procedure for mutation as per revenue laws with due notice to all concerned before recording any property as waqf property.
• Reforming the Tribunal structure with two members and providing for appeals against the orders of the Tribunal to the High Court within a specified period of ninety days.
• Omission of section 107 so as to make the Limitation Act, 1963 applicable to any action under the Act; and omission of sections 108 and 108A relating to special provision as to evacuee waqf properties and Act to have overriding effect.
• Renaming of the Waqf Act, 1995 as the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995.

Waqf Act 1995 was the last act which was regulating waqf properties in India prior to its renaming in 2025, and defines Waqf as an endowment of movable or immovable property for purposes considered pious, religious, or charitable under Muslim law. Every state is required to constitute a Waqf Board to manage waqf.

Out of the 872,852 waqf properties officially recorded across India, over 13,200 are currently involved in legal disputes, nearly 59,000 have been encroached upon, and more than 436,000 lack a clearly defined status. Governments across that country are in dispute with Waqf boards which have asserted ownership on more thatn 5900 government owned properties nationwide. However, the waqf boards maintains that their ownership is legitimate. A number of ongoing disputes over waqf properties can be traced back to the era of India’s independence & partition. Concerns about waqf properties were raised even during British rule, particularly regarding their management, misuse, and legal ambiguities. Despite repeated efforts by the judiciary and successive governments to bring clarity and resolution, many of these issues remain unresolved.{{cite news |title=Waqf law: The endless legal battles over Muslim-donated lands in India |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cly84vggk4ro |access-date=26 May 2025 |work=BBC |date=16 April 2025}}

The first waqf in the Indian subcontinent was documented in the 12th century when Muhammad Ghori, after his victory over Prithviraj Chauhan, established Muslim rule in India and a waqf with two villages through a recorded grant. Under the Delhi Sultanate, Waqf properties expanded, with sultans like Iltutmish, Muhammad bin Tughlaq and Alauddin Khilji establishing and maintaining them. The Mughal Empire furthered Waqf development, with Akbar and Shah Jahan endowing significant properties, including the Taj Mahal. The system's reach extended into rural areas with Muslim community expansion and conversions. Funding for Waqf was generated through the revenue of endowed villages, which were often predominantly Hindu villages, and were utilised for mosques and madrasas. Waqf system gained a more formal modern legal structure during British rule in the Indian subcontinent under the still applicable Indian laws when Waqf Boards were formed in 1913. Mussalman Waqf act 1923 was established for the purpose of advising it on matters pertaining to the working of the State Waqf Boards and proper administration of the Waqfs in the country. Waqf is a permanent donation of movable or immovable properties for religious purposes without any intention of reclaiming it as recognised by Muslim Law. The grant is known as mushrut-ul-khidmat, while a person making such dedication is known as Wakif.{{cite book|last=Ariff|first=Mohamed|title=The Islamic voluntary sector in Southeast Asia|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NP4ZL0TJ9s4C&dq=waqf&pg=PA43|year=1991|publisher=Institute of Southeast Asian Studies|isbn=981-3016-07-8|page=42}}{{cite book|last=Gupta|first=K.R. |author2=Amita Gupta|title=Concise encyclopaedia of India, (Volume 1) |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o84vxeFIeYUC&dq=wakf+board&pg=PA192|year=2006|publisher=Atlantic Publishers|isbn=81-269-0637-5|page=191}}{{Cite web |title=EXPLAINED: What is a Waqf board, and what are its governing principles? |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/india/article/explained-what-is-a-waqf-board-and-what-are-its-governing-principles/504789 |access-date=2022-04-09 |website=www.timesnownews.com |date=17 October 2019 |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2019-10-17 |title=Explained: How a waqf is created, and the laws that govern such properties |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-how-a-waqf-is-created-and-the-laws-that-govern-such-properties-6072476/ |access-date=2022-04-09 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=October 2, 2010 |title=Waqf board handles Muslim rulers' property {{!}} India News - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/waqf-board-handles-muslim-rulers-property/articleshow/6668877.cms |access-date=2022-04-09 |website=The Times of India |language=en}}

Reforms in Waqf regulation and legislations has been a big topic in recent decades in Indian politics and media, with the Bharatiya Janata Party making promises of doing it several times in their electoral manifestoes. Controversies, including corruption and land grabbing such as Karnataka Wakf Board Land Scam, led to the introduction of "The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024" which was passed in 2025 to introduce transparency and accountability in Waqf. In 2024, the Government of India had introduced the Waqf Amendment Bill proposing over forty changes to the existing legislation. However, the bill has been heavily criticised and opposed by Muslims.{{cite news |last1=Sebastian |first1=Meryl |last2=Farooquee |first2=Neyaz |date=14 February 2025 |title=Why Muslims in India are opposing changes to a property law |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c704d73kjpwo |access-date=20 April 2025 |publisher=BBC News |language=en}}

Waqf land in India has expanded dramatically to encompass 870,000 properties worth {{INRConvert|100000|c|lk=on|year=2024}} covering a total of 940,000 acres (3,808 sq km) making waqf third-biggest property-holders in India after the Indian Railways and the Indian Armed Forces, a growth facilitated by subsequent Muslim rulers and politicians. The 2006 Sachar Committee found waqf assets were undervalued and mismanaged, estimating 4.9 lakh properties worth Rs 6,000 crore but generating only Rs 163 crore in income. It highlighted issues like poor governance and recommended reforms in management and oversight.{{Cite web |last=Ali |first=Balhasan |date=2025-04-05 |title=Waqf must hold up promise of development |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/opinions/2025/Apr/05/waqf-must-hold-up-promise-of-development |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2025-04-03 |title=Indian parliament's lower house passes controversial Muslim endowments bill |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/4/3/indian-parliaments-lower-house-passes-controversial-muslim-endowments-bill |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=www.aljazeera.com |language=en}} Controversies have arisen from unchecked land grab and the rapid growth of Waqf holdings, exemplified by the case of entire predominantly Hindu village of Thiruchenthurai in Tiruchirapalli district of Tamil Nadu, including the 1,500-year-old Sundareswarar Temple, claimed by the Tamil Nadu Waqf Board, leaving residents bewildered and the nation angry because the waqf properties are irrevocable and immune to sale or transfer under the law, thus giving rise to the demand of amendment or revocation of waqf system and laws.{{cite news |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/history-of-it/story/waqf-board-amendment-bill-system-india-history-muhammad-ghori-gift-2-villages-flourish-sultanate-mughal-2642178-2024-11-29 |first1=Sushim |last1=Mukul |title=Waqf land in India grew from 2 villages gifted by invader Ghori to 9.4 lakh acre |newspaper=India Today |date=29 November 2024}}{{cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/waqf-through-the-ages-how-rs-1-lakh-crore-property-owner-board-acquires-land-and-what-the-govt-aims-to-change/articleshow/112365585.cms |title=Waqf through the ages: How Rs 1-lakh crore property owner board acquires land and what the govt aims to change |newspaper=The Economic Times |date=8 August 2024 }}{{cite news |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/112357558.cms |title=TOI Explains: Bid to introduce transparency and accountability in waqfs |first1=Ambika |last1=Pandit |first2=Mohammed |last2=Wajihuddin |newspaper=Times of India |date=8 August 2024}}{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/parliament-budget-session-waqf-amendment-bill-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-live-updates-april-2-2025/article69402498.ece |title=Parliament Budget Session Day 15 highlights: Lok Sabha adjourned to meet again on 3 April, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. 'The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024' passed in Lok Sabha |newspaper=The Hindu |date=3 April 2025 }}

In April 2025, journalist and author Afroz Alam Sahil published an article following his visit to Turkey, in which he refuted claims made by certain Indian legislators that Islamic countries such as Turkey lack a waqf system. Sahil documented that Turkey not only retains its waqf system but actively promotes it through state-backed institutions like the Vakıflar Genel Müdürlüğü (Directorate General of Foundations), which operates under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. He noted that the Turkish waqf system supports various aspects of public welfare—including education, healthcare, environmental protection, and preservation of religious heritage—while also encompassing minority waqf. Sahil contrasted this with the Indian context, where waqf properties have often been associated with administrative challenges and political controversies. His observations served as a factual counterpoint to political narratives in India that cite the supposed absence of waqf systems in Muslim-majority countries as justification for stricter regulation.{{Cite news |last=Sahil |first=Afroz Alam |title=Turkey's Living Waqf Legacy Challenges BJP's 'No Waqf Anywhere' Claim |url=https://thewire.in/religion/turkeys-living-waqf-legacy-challenges-bjps-no-waqf-anywhere-claim |work=The Wire |date=16 April 2025 |access-date=16 April 2025}}

Fact-checking platforms have also highlighted that countries such as Turkey, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Tunisia, and Iraq maintain waqf institutions or government bodies tasked with managing endowments and related affairs. For example, Egypt has a Ministry of Endowments, Libya and Sudan have dedicated government departments for waqf, and Turkey has maintained and modernized its waqf structures over time. While Tunisia had abolished its waqf system in the past, discussions on its revival have continued. Thus, the claim that Islamic countries have done away with waqf systems has been widely challenged and debunked.{{Cite web |last=Bhattacharya |first=Oishani |date=2024-10-14 |title=Countries like Turkey, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Lebanon, Syria etc do have Waqf; Sambit Patra's claim in LS false |url=https://www.altnews.in/pib-claim-on-islamic-countries-not-having-waqf-property-is-false/ |access-date=2025-04-17 |website=Alt News}}

Turkey categorizes its waqf properties into five main types: mazbūt (directly administered), mülhak (annexed), irsādī (state-established), new waqf, and minority waqf. The mazbūt waqfs are managed directly by the General Directorate of Foundations, and their revenues are used for various charitable activities, including Quran recitation, scholarships, social welfare programs, and healthcare services.

Waqfs in Turkey operate under legal supervision and are authorized to manage pooled resources. They play a crucial role in financing mosques, schools, hospitals, libraries, and cultural heritage sites in the country.{{cite journal |last1=Kamarubahrin |first1=Aimu Fadzirul |last2=Ahmed Ayedh |first2=Abdullah Mohammed |title=Critical Review on Waqf Experiences: Lessons from Muslim and Non-Muslim |journal=Iqtishadia |date=27 September 2018 |volume=11 |issue=2 |pages=332 |doi=10.21043/iqtishadia.v11i2.3272 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/329961585 |doi-access=free }}

Sahil further elaborated on the institutional and social context of Islamic practices in Turkey in his June 2025 article. He observed that despite alarmist media reports in India, Turkey handled Eid al-Adha with a high degree of administrative preparedness. Over 62,000 healthcare workers were deployed in Istanbul alone, with emergency services on full alert to handle minor injuries caused during sacrificial practices. Sahil emphasized that such religious customs are integrated into Turkey’s broader system of public health, urban management, and traditional institutions—including waqf. This reinforces the continuity of waqf-like values within modern Turkish governance and public services.{{Cite news |last=Sahil |first=Afroz Alam |title=How Turkey, Morocco and Eid al-Adha Were Misrepresented by Indian Media |url=https://thewire.in/article/media/how-turkey-morocco-and-eid-al-adha-were-misrepresented-by-indian-media |work=The Wire |date=10 June 2025 |access-date=14 June 2025}}

The economic role of waqf in Turkey is also evident during events like Eid al-Adha, when millions of animals are sacrificed. Leather from these sacrifices significantly supports Turkey’s leather industry. In 2022, Turkey exported $2.57 billion worth of leather products. According to Burak Uyguner, vice-president of the Istanbul Leather Exporters’ Association, sacrificial skins during Eid were worth up to 5 billion Turkish liras after processing.{{Cite web |title=Eid al-Adha Leather Created Added Value to the Turkish Economy |url=https://www.magazineleather.com/eid-al-adha-leather-created-added-value-to-the-turkish-economy/ |website=Magazine Leather |date=17 July 2022 |access-date=2025-06-14}} Waqf institutions and public trusts also contribute to the collection and use of these skins, promoting both economic value and environmental responsibility.

Kuwait and Singapore are recognized for their adoption of modern waqf management techniques.{{cite book |last1=Ismail |first1=Shafinar |last2=Hassan |first2=M. K. |last3=Rahmat |first3=Suharni |title=Islamic Social Finance: Waqf, Endowment, and SMEs |date=17 January 2023 |publisher=Edward Elgar Publishing |isbn=978-1-80392-980-4 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=D--nEAAAQBAJ&dq=waqf+kuwait&pg=PA17 |access-date=23 May 2025 |language=en |chapter=The role of waqf in sustainable economic development}} To ensure a structured, transparent, and accountable waqf system, Singapore appoints mutawallis under ISO standards, and waqf finances are managed with strict accounting principles.{{r|EEP|p=17}} Kuwait enacted waqf legislation in 1951, creating a comprehensive legal framework that governs waqf administration and recognizes its importance in socio-economic development. Waqf in Kuwait supports higher education, public health, housing for the needy, and humanitarian aid.{{r|EEP|p=36}}{{r|EEP|p=52}}{{r|EEP|p=26-27}}{{r|EEP|p=42}}

In Malaysia, waqf properties are developed to serve religious, educational, and social welfare purposes. Every waqf must be officially registered under civil laws enacted in 1956, ensuring proper legal recognition and governance. However, waqf management practices vary by state.

Brunei centrally administers its waqf sector via e-governance platforms that increase transparency, streamline services, and allow public access to waqf records and decisions.

Indonesia established an autonomous national waqf board in 2004 to oversee a wide range of productive waqf assets such as hospitals, educational institutions, warehouses, agricultural farms, and commercial real estate. This reflects the dynamic role of waqf in supporting both social and economic development.

In Iran, waqf properties are permitted only if they generate sustainable financial returns without diminishing the original capital. This model ensures the waqf continues to provide long-term charitable and public benefits. However, updated data on waqf governance in Iran remains limited.

In several Islamic countries—such as Syria, Egypt, and parts of Turkey—waqf properties have at times suffered from weak administration or were absorbed into the state sector. In Turkey, during the early republican era, a number of waqf assets were nationalized, although subsequent reforms have aimed to reinvigorate the system.

The government while proposing the legislation asserted that The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 established a secular, transparent and accountable system for Waqf administration in India. Although Waqf properties served religious & charitable purposes, their management involved significant legal, financial & administrative responsibilities that necessitated structured governance & oversight.{{cite news |title=Kiren Rijiju explains 4 key provisions of Waqf Bill: Won't snatch Muslim rights |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/waqf-bill-wont-snatch-lands-opposition-inciting-muslims-kiren-rijiju-in-lok-sabha-2702802-2025-04-02 |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=India Today |date=2 April 2025 |language=en}} The roles of Waqf Boards and the Central Waqf Council were defined as regulatory rather than religious, focused on ensuring legal compliance & protecting the public interest.{{cite news |title=The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 Explained |url=https://www.pib.gov.in/FaqDetails.aspx?NoteId=154100 |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=Press Information Bureau |publisher=Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India |date=3 Apr 2025}}

Policymakers argued that existing legal and institutional frameworks had hindered Waqf institutions from effectively serving the welfare needs of underprivileged members of the community.{{cite news |title=Waqf Bill 2025: All-India Muslim Jamaat Applauds Lok Sabha Passage |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/uttar-pradesh/all-india-muslim-jamaat-welcomes-passage-of-waqf-bill-in-lok-sabha-3475591 |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=Deccan Herald |date=3 April 2025 |language=en}} In response, the 2025 amendment aimed to enhance transparency, efficiency and inclusivity while aligning Waqf governance with constitutional values. By introducing checks & balances, empowering stakeholders and improving institutional accountability, the Bill was positioned as a progressive step toward equitable and effective Waqf management in India. The government outlined several policy justifications for these reforms, emphasizing their alignment with broader goals of social justice & constitutional governance.{{cite news |title=All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board Backs Waqf Amendment Bill |url=https://zeenews.india.com/india/all-india-muslim-women-personal-law-board-backs-waqf-amendment-bill-2882166.html |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=Zee News |language=en}}

• Institutional Transparency and Digital Governance: The Act mandates the digitization and centralized registration of all Waqf properties within six months. This initiative aims to rectify historical issues of mismanagement and opacity in Waqf administration. By creating a centralized digital portal, the government seeks to facilitate real-time monitoring, prevent unauthorized transactions and ensure that revenue generated from Waqf properties is used exclusively for community welfare. This reform is expected to curb corruption & financial irregularities, thereby improving overall governance. Provision for surveys and audits is also proposed.{{cite news |title=New waqf bill incorporates all 25 changes suggested by JPC |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/new-waqf-bill-incorporates-all-25-changes-suggested-by-jpc-101743533450311.html |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=Hindustan Times |date=2 April 2025 |language=en-us}}

• Legal Clarity and Prevention of Unlawful Claims: The amendment abolishes the 'waqf-by-user' doctrine and prohibits the unilateral declaration of any land including that belonging to government as Waqf property. These provisions are designed said to reduce land disputes that have led to extended litigation across various states. For instance, cases such as the land ownership conflict in Tamil Nadu have drawn national attention.{{cite news |title=In Tamil Nadu, Waqf board claims ownership of an entire village. There's a temple too |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/in-tamil-nadu-waqf-board-claims-ownership-of-an-entire-village-there-s-a-temple-too-101663245541768.html |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=Hindustan Times}}{{cite news |last1=Jaisankar |first1=C. |title=Wakf Board claim: Thiruchendurai villagers get temporary exemption for registering title deeds |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Tiruchirapalli/wakf-board-claim-thiruchendurai-villagers-get-temporary-exemption-for-registering-title-deeds/article65890737.ece |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=The Hindu |date=14 September 2022 |language=en-IN}}{{cite news |title=150 residents of a Tamil Nadu village get notice from Dargah over Waqf land |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/tamil-nadu/150-residents-of-a-tamil-nadu-village-get-notice-from-dargah-over-waqf-land-3495061 |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=Deccan Herald |language=en}}{{cite news |title="Chennai's 1000-yr-old Peyazhwar Temple Is On Waqf Property": TN Waqf Board Chief Claims |url=https://thecommunemag.com/chennai-peyazhwar-temple-waqf-claims/ |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=The Commune |date=15 August 2024}} By introducing stricter guidelines and eliminating arbitrary claims, the amendment aims to safeguard property rights & uphold the integrity of Waqf assets.

• Promoting Gender Equality: The Act ensures representation of Muslim women on Waqf boards and protects inheritance rights, aligning with constitutional values of equality and justice. The amendment also prioritizes the welfare of Muslim women, particularly widows and divorced women, by promoting self-help groups and financial independence programs. It ensures representation of women in Waqf Boards and supports initiatives such as scholarships for Muslim girls, vocational training programs and legal aid centers for inheritance disputes & domestic violence cases. By empowering women, the bill seeks to make Waqf governance more inclusive and responsive to community needs.{{cite news |title=Centre enacts Waqf Law Reforms to promote transparency, women's inclusion |url=https://ddnews.gov.in/en/centre-enacts-waqf-law-reforms-to-promote-transparency-womens-inclusion/ |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=DD news |date=8 April 2025}}

• Gender Representation and Women's Empowerment: The Act introduces provisions for the representation of Muslim women on Waqf Boards that the government said is in line with constitutional commitments to equality and justice. It also supports welfare measures including scholarships for girls, vocational training, self-help groups, and legal aid services. These initiatives seek to empower Muslim women who are widows and divorcees by enhancing their participation in community governance and promoting financial independence.{{cite news |title=Centre to overhaul Waqf Act, increase women representation |url=https://www.greaterkashmir.com/gk-top-news/centre-to-overhaul-waqf-act-increase-women-representation/ |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=Greater Kashmir |date=5 August 2024}}{{cite news |title=Women's Empowerment in Waqf Governance |url=https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2120128 |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=Press Information Bureau |publisher=Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India |date=8 April 2025}}

• Inclusive Representation and Community Participation: To democratize Waqf administration, this Act mandates representation from diverse Muslim sects including Bohra and Aghakhani communities and members from socially and economically backward classes. Additionally, two non-Muslim professionals with expertise in administration or law are to be included on the State and Central Waqf Boards. This is intended to foster a more inclusive and accountable governance structure.{{cite news |title=Waqf Bill 1995 vs 2024: Key changes and why they matter, explained |url=https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/waqf-amendment-bill-1995-2024-key-changes-impact-controversy-explained-125040200613_1.html |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=Business Standard |date=2 April 2025}}

• Public Health and Medical Welfare Initiatives: The amendment encourages the allocation of Waqf resources towards the establishment and support of healthcare facilities particularly in the underserved regions. By improving the efficiency of property management, this Act enables the redirection of funds toward building health institutions and toward providing subsidized medical aid in areas with limited healthcare infrastructure.

• Educational Upliftment and Skill Development: Recognizing the role of education in socio-economic upliftment, the Act prioritizes the construction & maintenance of educational institutions including schools and madrassas. It also provides for scholarships, financial aid and the development of vocational training centres aimed at equipping youth with employable skills.

• Affordable Housing and Social Welfare Infrastructure: The Act allows Waqf Boards to utilize underused or idle properties for affordable housing initiatives. These include low-cost rental programs, shelters for the homeless & housing projects for the economically weaker sections within the community. This is intended to reduce housing insecurity while ensuring productive use of Waqf assets for the needy.

• Economic Empowerment through Community Development: The amendment encourages programs that promote self-reliance and financial independence through microfinance schemes, small business loans, entrepreneurship & livelihood support initiatives. By leveraging Waqf resources for the community development, the Act supports the broader goal of sustainable economic empowerment.

• Expedited Legal Redress and Judicial Efficiency: This Act confers civil court powers upon Waqf Tribunals and permits appeals to High Courts which establishes a more efficient legal framework for resolving disputes related to Waqf properties. This reform is intended to reduce the existing backlog of litigations.

• Protection and Reclamation of Encroached Waqf Assets: According to data from the Waqf Assets Management System of India (WAMSI), nearly 58898 Waqf properties have been unlawfully occupied. The amendment introduces stricter legal measures for the recovery of encroached lands & empowers district collectors to enforce these provisions. These steps are aimed at restoring Waqf properties for their intended charitable & community-oriented purposes.{{cite news |last1=Mishra |first1=Ishita |last2=Singh |first2=Vijaita |title=Waqf amendment Bill introduces District Collector as an arbiter to decide whether a property is a Waqf or government land |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/waqf-amendment-bill-introduces-district-collector-as-an-arbiter-to-decide-whether-a-property-is-a-waqf-or-government-land/article68497319.ece |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=The Hindu |date=7 August 2024 |language=en-IN}}

• Professionalization and Structural Modernization of Waqf Boards: The inclusion of professionals both Muslim and non-Muslim specialists in law, administration and land management is aimed at modernizing the governance model. The amendment redefines the role of Waqf Boards and the Central Waqf Council as regulatory rather than religious bodies, focusing on legal compliance, transparency & public accountability. The reform also introduces systemic checks and balances to ensure long-term sustainability and relevance of Waqf institutions in a pluralistic democratic framework.{{cite news |title=Want secular, inclusive Waqf Board with non-Muslims, women: Kiren Rijiju |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/waqf-bill-in-lok-sabha-kiren-rijiju-says-want-more-secular-inclusive-waqf-board-with-non-muslims-and-women-2702830-2025-04-02 |access-date=24 May 2025 |work=India Today |date=2 April 2025 |language=en}}

A 31-member JPC{{Cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/waqf-amendment-bill-2024-jpc-lok-sabha-members-muslim-organisations-bjp-congress-2579869-2024-08-09|title=21 Lok Sabha MPs on Waqf bill panel, here's who is on it|date=9 August 2024|website=India Today|access-date=9 August 2024|archive-date=9 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809143125/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/waqf-amendment-bill-2024-jpc-lok-sabha-members-muslim-organisations-bjp-congress-2579869-2024-08-09|url-status=live}} had been established to review the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The committee comprised 21 members from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha. The formation of the committee was announced by MoMA Kiren Rijiju on 9 August 2024. Some rounds of the JPC meetings were boycotted by few members from opposition parties.{{Cite news |last=Chatterjee |first=Shrabana |date=2024-11-07 |title=Opposition members will boycott next JPC meeting: Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/west-bengal/oppn-members-of-jpc-on-waqf-amendment-bill-to-boycott-next-round-of-meetings/article68840608.ece |access-date=2025-04-06 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/lok-sabha-and-rajya-sabha-members-for-joint-panel-to-examine-the-waqf-amendment-bill/article68505225.ece|title=Waqf (Amendment) Bill: Lok Sabha adopts motion naming 21 members for joint panel on Waqf Bill; will have 10 MPs from Rajya Sabha|date=9 August 2024|website=The Hindu|access-date=9 August 2024|archive-date=9 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809143125/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/lok-sabha-and-rajya-sabha-members-for-joint-panel-to-examine-the-waqf-amendment-bill/article68505225.ece|url-status=live}}

During the consultation process on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, several civil society organizations, political representatives, and religious institutions submitted memoranda to the Joint Parliamentary Committee, raising concerns regarding the proposed amendments. Notable submissions were received from the Indian Union Muslim League (Kerala), Dr. Shafiqur Rahman Barq (Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha), Anjuman Waqf Committee (Uttar Pradesh), and the Act Public Welfare Foundation (Serial No. 377, page 863).{{Cite web |title=Joint Committee Report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 |url=https://sansad.in/getFile/lsscommittee/Joint%20Committee%20on%20the%20Waqf%20(Amendment)%20Bill,%202024/18_Joint_Committee_on_the_Waqf_(Amendment)_Bill_2024_1.pdf?source=loksabhadocs |website=Lok Sabha Secretariat |access-date=26 April 2025}}

Critics, including opposition parties, have raised concerns about the bill's constitutional validity and its potential impact on minority rights. Such concerns include:{{Cite journal |last1=Peerzada |first1=Rutba |last2=Mutahhar Amin |first2=Muhammad |date=2024-12-26 |title=(wl-3755)-Waqf Amendment Bill 2024: Transparency, Communalism and Authority |url=https://doi.org/10.71279/epw.v60i1.42070 |journal=Economic & Political Weekly |volume=60 |issue=1 |doi=10.71279/epw.v60i1.42070 |issn=2349-8846|url-access=subscription }}{{Cite web |date=2025-04-02 |title=Waqf Amendment Bill: Top 5 Critical Issues |url=https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/waqf-amendment-bill-top-5-critical-issues-by-opposition-1743583331-1 |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=Jagranjosh.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=What Concerns About the Waqf Amendment Bill Does the JPC's Report Identify? |url=https://m.thewire.in/article/government/waqf-jpc-report-amendment-bill-concerns?mid_related_new |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=thewire.in |language=en}}

• Inclusion of non-Muslim members in Waqf Boards undermines the religious autonomy of these boards and violates constitutional protections for minority institutions.
• The proposed removal of the ‘Waqf by User’ provision arbitrarily excludes potential donors, particularly recent converts who may wish to endow property for religious or charitable purposes.
• The bill empowers district collectors to determine ownership of disputed waqf properties, shifting authority from Waqf boards to government-appointed officials. This raises concerns about potential misuse of power and political interference.
• The bill proposes to repeal Section 107 of the Waqf Act, 1995, thereby making the Limitation Act, 1963 applicable to waqf properties. Critics argue that this move would severely hamper the ability of Waqf Boards to reclaim encroached properties. Without the exemption, individuals who have illegally occupied waqf land for over 12 years could claim ownership through adverse possession, effectively legitimizing illegal encroachments and weakening protections for community-held religious assets.

Some argue that it could lead to government overreach in the management of Waqf properties. The government has defended the bill, stating that it aims to bring transparency and accountability to the management of Waqf properties. Home Minister Amit Shah emphasised that the bill does not encroach upon religious practices but seeks to ensure proper utilisation of these charitable endowments.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-13 |title=Waqf Bill controversy explained: Why is opposition opposing it and what's the government's clarification? |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/waqf-bill-controversy-explained-why-is-opposition-opposing-it-and-whats-the-governments-clarification/3748237/ |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Waqf Bill now an Act after Presidential assent |url=https://odishatv.in/news/national/waqf-bill-now-an-act-after-presidential-assent-259616 |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=Waqf Bill now an Act after Presidential assent |language=en}}

According to a report by The New York Times, the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 allows the appointment of non-Muslims to the panels administering Waqf Boards and empowers state officials to adjudicate disputes. The article states that the bill was passed after parliamentary debate, with the government arguing that the changes were necessary to improve efficiency, ensure accountability, and prevent abuse. The report also notes that while the constitution protects the rights of religious groups to manage their own affairs, critics argue that the bill could provide a legal basis for targeting the Muslim community. It includes the view of Imran Pratapgarhi, a Member of Parliament from the Indian National Congress, who expressed concern over the bill’s potential impact on Muslim religious properties.{{Cite news |last1=Mashal |first1=Mujib |last2=Kumar |first2=Hari |date=2025-04-04 |title=India Passes Contentious Bill Increasing Oversight of Muslim Land Trusts |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/04/world/asia/india-bill-muslim-land-waqfs.html |access-date=2025-04-19 |work=The New York Times}}

The BBC reports that the Waqf Amendment Act 2025 has removed the provision of "waqf by user", which previously allowed properties to be recognised as waqf if they had been used for religious or charitable purposes by Muslims over time. According to the article, this has raised concerns among critics that many such properties—often orally donated and without written deeds—may no longer be classified as waqf. The law has led to protests, and several petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court challenging its provisions. Critics argue that the changes could lead to the loss of existing waqf properties and increase litigation.

According to Foreign Policy The amendment has sparked protests, arrests, and fear among Muslims, who see it as part of a broader agenda to erode their rights and status. With over 870,000 waqf properties at stake, critics argue the law threatens secularism and deepens communal divides in India.{{Cite web |last=Aswani |first=Tarushi |date=2025-05-20 |title=In India, Controversial Law Threatens Muslim Property |url=https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/05/13/india-muslim-property-law-waqf-amendment-act-protests/ |access-date=2025-05-19 |website=Foreign Policy |language=en-US}}

Despite the government's claims, RTI findings by journalist Afroz Alam Sahil revealed serious inconsistencies in the Waqf digitisation process managed through the WAMSI portal. Data for over 435,000 properties was missing, large portions of funds remained underutilised, and no audits had been carried out. Sahil also pointed out discrepancies between official records and ground realities, including mismatched figures on graveyards and other properties, raising significant concerns about transparency, accuracy, and the long-term effectiveness of the digitisation initiative.{{cite web |last=Sahil |first=Afroz Alam |title=RTIs on Digitisation of Waqf Assets Expose Inconsistencies, Incomplete Data; Govt Yet to Take Action |url=https://thewire.in/rights/rti-on-digitisation-of-waqf-assets-expose-inconsistencies-incomplete-data-govt-yet-to-take-action |website=The Wire |date=2 January 2025 |access-date=16 April 2025}}

Congress MP Mohammad Jawed and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi separately challenged the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 in the Supreme Court of India on April 4, 2025.{{Cite news |last=Rajagopal |first=Krishnadas |date=2025-04-04 |title=Congress MP Mohammed Jawed, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi move Supreme Court against Waqf Bill |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/congress-mp-moves-sc-against-waqf-bill-hours-after-parliament-clears-it/article69412417.ece |access-date=2025-04-04 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite web |date=2025-04-04 |title=Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 Highlights: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi moves Supreme Court |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/waqf-amendment-bill-2025-live-updates-pm-modi-rajya-sabha-parliament-nod-on-waqf-muslims-reactions/3798373/ |access-date=2025-04-18 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=2025-04-04 |title=Congress MP, AIMIM's Asaduddin Owaisi move Supreme Court against Waqf Bill |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/waqf-bill-supreme-court-congress-mp-mohammad-jawed-101743765391172.html |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250404145156/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/waqf-bill-supreme-court-congress-mp-mohammad-jawed-101743765391172.html |archive-date=2025-04-04 |access-date=2025-04-18 |work=Hindustan Times |language=en-us}} The Communist Party of India (CPI) also filed a petition contesting the constitutional validity of the Act.{{Cite news |agency=PTI |date=2025-04-14 |title=CPI moves SC challenging constitutional validity of Waqf (Amendment) Act |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/cpi-moves-sc-challenging-constitutional-validity-of-waqf-amendment-act/article69448838.ece |access-date=2025-04-14 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite news |title=CPI moves SC challenging constitutional validity of Waqf (Amendment) Act |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/cpi-moves-sc-challenging-constitutional-validity-of-waqf-amendment-act-3492970 |date=14 April 2025 |newspaper=Deccan Herald |language=en |agency=Press Trust of India}}

Subsequently, multiple other petitions were filed by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind, DMK, and several other Members of Parliament and religious organizations.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-17 |title=Waqf Amendment Act SC Hearing LIVE Updates: Supreme Court grants 7 days to Centre to respond to pleas against Waqf Act |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/supreme-court-waqf-act-hearing-live-updates-cji-khanna-bjp-9946860/lite/#amp_tf=From%20%251$s&aoh=17449958458071&referrer=https://www.google.com |access-date=2025-04-18 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}} On April 17, 2025, the Supreme Court clubbed all these petitions under the title “In re: Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025” and directed the Union government to file a consolidated reply within one week. The court also ordered that no waqf property—whether registered, unregistered, or waqf by user—be denotified, altered, or interfered with until the next hearing.{{Cite web |title=Supreme Court grants Centre week to reply on Waqf Act validity, says no changes to 'waqf by user' till next hearing |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/supreme-grants-centre-week-to-reply-on-waqf-act-validity-says-no-changes-to-waqf-by-user-till-next-hearing-101744880034347.html |website=Hindustan Times |date=2025-04-17 |access-date=2025-04-18}}{{Cite web |title=Day after Supreme Court's red flag, Govt puts key aspects of Waqf law on hold until May 5 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/waqf-act-supreme-court-hearing-centre-appointments-to-boards-9949756/ |website=The Indian Express |date=2025-04-18 |access-date=2025-04-18}}

During the Supreme Court hearing on the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the central government, assured the court that no waqf property would be denotified and no appointments would be made to the Central Waqf Council or State Waqf Boards until 5 May. He argued that interim relief should not be granted without hearing the government's position on a law passed by Parliament. The court recorded the assurance and granted the government one week to file its response.{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2025-04-17 |title=Waqf Amendment Act Supreme Court hearing highlights: Centre says won't denotify properties, SC grants it 7 days to reply to pleas |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/waqf-amendment-act-supreme-court-hearing-highlights-second-day-april-17-2025/article69459391.ece |access-date=2025-04-18 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}

On April 28, 2025, the Supreme Court declined to entertain a fresh plea filed by petitioner Syed Alo Akbar challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The bench, comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, reiterated its earlier directive of April 17 that only five consolidated petitions would be heard under the case titled “In Re: Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025”. The Court asked the petitioner to file an intervention application in those pending cases instead.{{Cite news |date=2025-04-28 |title=Supreme Court refuses to entertain fresh plea challenging Waqf (Amendment) Act |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/supreme-court-refuses-to-entertain-fresh-plea-challenging-waqf-amendment-act/article69500429.ece |access-date=2025-04-30 |work=The Hindu}} The Court also appointed three nodal counsels to coordinate arguments and directed them to determine among themselves who would represent the consolidated petitions during the hearing on May 5. The petitioners were permitted to file rejoinders to the Centre’s affidavit—which spans over 1,300 pages—within five days of its service.

{{Main|Murshidabad violence}}

Several protests occurred across India when the bill was amended into an act. Violent protests also erupted in places such as West Bengal's Murshidabad and Tripura's Unakoti.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-12 |title=Waqf protests spiral in Murshidabad, 3 killed; court orders deployment of central forces |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/waqf-protests-murshidabad-arrested-cops-injured-9940544/ |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=2025-04-12 |title=Anti-Waqf Act protests in Tripura turns violent, 18 police personnel injured |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/anti-waqf-act-protests-in-tripura-turns-violent-18-police-personnel-injured/articleshow/120235922.cms |access-date=2025-04-12 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}} In Murshidabad, the protests resulted in multiple casualties and arrests, prompting the Calcutta High Court to order the deployment of the Border Security Force. Officials stated the paramilitary presence was to assist local police in restoring law and order.

Many Muslim organisations, including the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), staged demonstrations in Delhi, Kolkata and other cities, calling the bill discriminatory and unconstitutional. Critics, including the AIMPLB, several Muslim bodies, and opposition parties such as the Indian National Congress, alleged that the law was aimed at undermining Muslim religious endowments and enabling state interference in waqf properties.{{Cite news |date=2025-04-15 |title=What is the controversial Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 and why has it sparked violent protests? |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/waqf-bill-protests-muslims-west-bengal-supreme-court-b2733543.html |access-date=2025-04-18 |website=The Independent |language=en}} They viewed the law as discriminatory towards Muslims, while the government maintained that the reforms aimed to ensure transparency in waqf property management.{{Cite news |date=13 April 2025 |title=India deploys troops after deadly protests over Muslim endowment bill |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/4/13/3-dead-over-150-arrested-in-india-protests-over-muslim-properties-bill |access-date=18 April 2025 |work=Al Jazeera |language=en}}

On 16 April 2025, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) held a large-scale protest at Kozhikode Beach in Kerala in opposition to the Act.{{Cite news |date=16 April 2025 |title=Lakhs rally in Kozhikode as IUML leads massive protest against new Waqf Act, calling it largest protest in India |url=https://muslimmirror.com/lakhs-rally-in-kozhikode-as-iuml-leads-massive-protest-against-new-waqf-act-calling-it-largest-protest-in-india/ |work=Muslim Mirror}} On 19 April, members of the local Muslim community in Phagwara, Punjab, led by Sarwar Ghulam Shaba of the Rahstriya Alpsankhyak Arakshan Morcha (Punjab unit), held a protest march against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The protesters alleged that the Act was unconstitutional and aimed at government takeover of Waqf properties across the country. An effigy of the Central Government was burnt, and a memorandum was submitted to the BDPO addressed to the President of India, demanding repeal of the Act.{{Cite news |title=Muslim assn stages protest over Waqf Bill |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/jalandhar/muslim-assn-stages-protest-over-waqf-bill/ |work=The Tribune |date=20 April 2025 |access-date=20 April 2025}}

On 19 April 2025, hundreds of Muslims in Cuttack, Odisha, held a protest march against the amended Waqf law. Wearing black bands, they marched from Gandhi Bhawan to the District Collectorate and submitted a memorandum addressed to the President of India and the Chief Justice of India. Organizations such as the State Minority Council, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (Cuttack unit), Muslim Youth Association, Imarat-e-Shariah, and some secular groups participated. The protesters stated that the amended law infringes upon the constitutional and religious rights of Muslims and demanded its withdrawal.{{Cite news |date=2025-04-19 |title=Muslims rally in Cuttack against new Waqf Act |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/muslims-rally-in-cuttack-against-new-waqf-act/articleshow/120439566.cms |access-date=2025-04-20 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

On 19 April 2025, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), with support from the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), organized a massive public protest in Hyderabad against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The gathering, titled "Save Waqf, Save Constitution", took place at Darussalam, the AIMIM headquarters, and was attended by thousands, including representatives from several political parties such as the Congress, Bharat Rashtra Samithi, YSR Congress Party, and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi condemned the Act for being discriminatory and unconstitutional, particularly criticizing the clause requiring individuals to be practicing Muslims for at least five years before they can create a waqf.{{cite news |title=Today in Politics: AIMIM and All India Muslim Board to protest against Waqf Act|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/aimim-all-india-muslim-board-protest-waqf-act-9952603/ |work=The Indian Express |date=19 April 2025 |access-date=18 April 2025}} The protest included announcements of further public actions, such as a lights-out protest on 30 April, city-level roundtables on 18 May, a women’s gathering on 22 May, a human chain demonstration across Hyderabad on 25 May, and a sit-in protest on 1 June. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of India has deferred its interim ruling on petitions against the Waqf Act to 5 May 2025.{{cite news |title=Day after Supreme Court's red flag, Govt puts key aspects of Waqf law on hold until May 5 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/waqf-act-supreme-court-hearing-centre-appointments-to-boards-9949756/ |work=The Indian Express |date=17 April 2025 |access-date=18 April 2025}}

{{See|2025 Pahalgam attack}}

On 22 April 2025, a terrorist attack in the Baisaran meadows near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including two foreign nationals, and left several others injured.{{cite news |title=Pahalgam terror attack: Who are the victims? Full list |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pahalgam-terror-attack-full-list-of-victims/article69482468.ece |work=The Hindu |date=23 April 2025 |access-date=24 April 2025}} The Resistance Front (TRF), affiliated with the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba group, claimed responsibility.{{cite news |title=Pahalgam terror attack LIVE: India puts Indus Waters treaty 'in abeyance' |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pahalgam-jammu-kashmir-terror-attack-tourists-dead-injured-april-22-2025/article69478557.ece |work=The Hindu |date=24 April 2025 |access-date=24 April 2025}}

Prominent Muslim organisations strongly condemned the attack, calling it inhuman and incompatible with Islamic principles. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) issued a statement of condolence and announced a three-day suspension of its ongoing protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act as a gesture of solidarity with the victims’ families.{{cite news |title=Muslim bodies condemn Pahalgam attack; Madani says terrorism contradicts Islam's policy of peace |agency=PTI |work=The New Indian Express |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Apr/23/muslim-bodies-condemn-pahalgam-attack-madani-says-terrorism-contradicts-islams-policy-of-peace |date=23 April 2025 |access-date=24 April 2025}}{{cite news |title=AIMPLB Temporarily Suspends Waqf Protests Due To Pahalgam Terror Attack |agency=PTI |work=News18 |url=https://www.news18.com/india/aimplb-temporarily-suspends-waqf-protests-due-to-pahalgam-terror-attack-ws-l-9310883.html |date=23 April 2025 |access-date=24 April 2025}}

On 12 April 2025, the March for Gaza, held in the capital of Bangladesh, characterized it as part of a broader pattern of Muslim displacement in India. Participants called on the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and Muslim-majority countries to issue strong protests and adopt a coordinated diplomatic response.{{Cite news |date=12 April 2025 |title='মার্চ ফর গাজা' কর্মসূচি থেকে কী বার্তা দেওয়া হলো? |trans-title=What message was conveyed by the 'March for Gaza' program? |url=https://www.bbc.com/bengali/articles/cg5qz7e55peo |work=BBC Bangla}}

On 23 March 2025, many Muslim leaders boycotted the Iftaar hosted by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in protest against his support for the Waqf Bill, following an earlier announcement by the Imarat-e-Shariah and six other organisations. However, despite the call for a boycott, several Muslim leaders, including some members of the Imarat-e-Shariah, attended the event.{{Cite news |last=Singh |first=Santosh |title=Bihar Muslim body announces boycott of Nitish Kumar's Iftaar over Waqf Bill, Congress comes to his defence |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/bihar-muslim-body-announces-boycott-of-nitish-kumars-iftaar-over-waqf-bill-congress-comes-to-his-defence-9902278/ |work=The Indian Express |date=24 March 2025 |access-date=18 April 2025}}{{Cite news |last=Bhelari |first=Amit |date=2025-03-23 |title=Muslim organisations boycott Nitish Kumar's Iftar over his support to Waqf Amendment Bill |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/bihar/muslim-organisations-boycott-nitish-kumars-iftar-over-his-support-to-waqf-amendment-bill/article69365379.ece |access-date=2025-04-20 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite news |title=Major Muslim organisations boycott Iftar hosted by Nitish Kumar over his waqf stance |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/major-muslim-organisations-boycott-iftar-hosted-by-bihar-chief-minister-nitish-kumar-over-his-waqf-stance-prnt/cid/2090440 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250324011238/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/major-muslim-organisations-boycott-iftar-hosted-by-bihar-chief-minister-nitish-kumar-over-his-waqf-stance-prnt/cid/2090440 |archive-date=2025-03-24 |access-date=2025-04-20 |language=en}}

On 27 March 2025, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) launched a nationwide protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, calling it "unconstitutional and undemocratic". The Board stated that the Bill undermines minority rights and announced a series of protests across Indian cities, including Patna, Vijayawada, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.{{Cite news |last=Mojib |first=Imran |title=Waqf Bill protests rock Patna from streets to the House |url=https://www.thestatesman.com/india/waqf-bill-protests-rock-patna-from-streets-to-the-house-1503412224.html |newspaper=The Statesman (India) |date=27 March 2025 |access-date=18 April 2025}}{{Cite news |date=6 April 2025 |title=Will lead nationwide movement against Waqf Act until law repealed: AIMPLB |url=https://www.business-standard.com/politics/will-lead-nationwide-movement-against-waqf-act-until-law-repealed-aimplb-125040600007_1.html |access-date=7 April 2025 |work=Business Standard |language=en |agency=Press Trust of India}}

On 31 March 2025, The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), in support of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, released a statement that certain provisions in the existing Central Waqf Act were inconsistent with the Constitution and the secular democratic values of the country.{{Cite news |title=Bishops bat for Waqf Amendment Bill, seek resolution to land disputes |newspaper=The Telegraph (India) |date=1 April 2025 |first1=Pheroze L. |last1=Vincent |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/bishops-bat-for-waqf-amendment-bill-seek-resolution-to-land-disputes-prnt/cid/2091763 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250404050250/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/bishops-bat-for-waqf-amendment-bill-seek-resolution-to-land-disputes-prnt/cid/2091763 |archive-date=4 April 2025|access-date=19 April 2025 |language=en}} "In Kerala, the Waqf Board has invoked these provisions to declare the ancestral residential properties of more than 600 families in the Munambam region as Waqf land. Over the past three years, this issue has escalated into a complex legal dispute. The fact remains that only a legal amendment can provide a permanent solution, and this must be recognised by the people’s representatives," noted the CBCI, asking the political parties and legislators to adopt an unbiased and constructive approach to this issue.{{Cite news |last=Perappadan |first=Bindu Shajan |date=31 March 2025 |title=Association of Catholic bishops seeks unbiased, constructive approach to Waqf Amendment Bill |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/association-of-catholic-bishops-seeks-unbiased-constructive-approach-to-waqf-amendment-bill/article69397163.ece |access-date=19 April 2025 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite news |title=Catholic bishops organisation backs Waqf Amendment Bill, seeks unbiased approach from political parties |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/catholic-bishops-organisation-backs-waqf-amendment-bill-seeks-unbiased-approach-from-political-parties-3470819 |date=31 March 2025 |access-date=19 April 2025 |newspaper=Deccan Herald |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=31 March 2025|title=Catholic bishops organisation backs Waqf amendment bill, seeks unbiased approach from political parties |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/catholic-bishops-organisation-backs-waqf-amendment-bill-seeks-unbiased-approach-from-political-parties-101743427344746.html |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250402095353/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/catholic-bishops-organisation-backs-waqf-amendment-bill-seeks-unbiased-approach-from-political-parties-101743427344746.html |archive-date=2 April 2025 |access-date=19 April 2025 |newspaper=Hindustan Times |agency=Press Trust of India |language=en}}

On 17 April 2025, a Dawoodi Bohra community delegation expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, fulfilling a long-standing demand.{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=17 April 2025 |title=Dawoodi Bohra community thanks Modi for bringing Waqf (Amendment) Act |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/dawoodi-bohra-community-thanks-modi-for-bringing-waqf-amendment-act/article69461907.ece |access-date=18 April 2025 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN}}{{Cite news |date=18 April 2025 |title=Dawoodi Bohras express gratitude to PM Modi over Waqf Act amendment |url=https://www.firstpost.com/india/dawoodi-bohras-express-gratitude-to-pm-modi-over-waqf-act-amendment-13880876.html |access-date=19 April 2025 |work=Firstpost |language=en |agency=Press Trust of India}}{{Cite news |title=Dawoodi Bohra Delegation Meets PM Modi In Delhi, Thanks Him For Waqf (Amendment) Act |url=https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/dawoodi-bohra-delegation-meets-pm-modi-in-delhi-thanks-him-for-waqf-amendment-act |first1=Manoj |last1=Ramakrishnan |date=19 April 2025 |access-date=19 April 2025 |work=The Free Press Journal |language=en}} However, The Waqf Amendment Bill has sparked intense opposition from the All India Shia Personal Law Board calling it as "Not right".{{Cite news |title=Shia Personal Law Board May Approach Supreme Court Over Waqf Amendment Bill |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/shia-personal-law-board-may-approach-supreme-court-over-waqf-amendment-bill-7706376 |agency=Asian News International |date=14 February 2025 |access-date=18 April 2025 |work=NDTV |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=14 February 2025 |title=Shia Personal Law Board May Approach Supreme Court Over Waqf Amendment Bill |work=United Television Network News |url=https://utvnetwork.in/national/327259/ |access-date=18 April 2025 |language=en }}

On 21 April 2025, the Central Government informed the Supreme Court that it was holding in abeyance the very provisions of the Waqf Act that it had previously defended in Parliament, including the clause related to ‘Waqf-by-user’ properties and the appointment of non-Muslims to Waqf Boards. This assurance came during hearings on petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act.{{Cite news |last=Pathak |first=Vikas |title=Waqf Act: In assurance to SC, Centre pauses same provisions it had defended in Parliament |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/waqf-act-centre-supreme-court-9957190/ |work=The Indian Express |date=22 April 2025 |access-date=22 April 2025}}

On the same day, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, chairman of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference and chief cleric of Srinagar's Jama Masjid, criticised the Waqf (Amendment) Act, calling it an "assault on the Muslim identity". He expressed hope that the Supreme Court would uphold constitutional and religious rights and strike down the law. The Mirwaiz also stated that despite restrictions on meetings of the Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulama (MMU), a joint resolution had been passed to support the All India Muslim Personal Law Board’s stance against the Bill.{{Cite news |title=We hope apex court will accept our concerns and reject Waqf Amendment Bill: Mirwaiz |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/we-hope-apex-court-will-accept-our-concerns-and-reject-waqf-amendment-bill-mirwaiz-101745259962705.html |work=Hindustan Times |date=22 April 2025 |access-date=22 April 2025}}

• Central Waqf Council
• Political integration of India
• Custodian for Enemy Property for India
• Enemy Property Act, 1968
• Privy Purse in India
• Transfer of Property Act 1882
• Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016

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• [https://pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=152139&ModuleId=3®=3&lang=1 Waqf Amendment Bill 2024]

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