Contentious Waqf (Amendment) Act comes into force

Several Muslim bodies and opposition MPs have moved the Supreme Court against the law, which they have described as a direct attack against the Muslim community and their fundamental rights.
In this image from April 7, 2025, people protest against the newly passed Waqf (Amendment) Act in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
In this image from April 7, 2025, people protest against the newly passed Waqf (Amendment) Act in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Express photo
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NEW DELHI: In a significant development, the Waqf Amendment Bill has come into effect, following the assent of the President of India, Droupadi Murmu. The Bill, which received widespread attention and debate, was notified by the BJP-led NDA-III government at the Centre, marking its enforcement from April 8, 2025.

The Waqf Amendment Bill, which seeks to bring about reforms to the administration of Waqf properties, was passed by both Houses of Parliament amid fierce protests from the Opposition. The Bill had been subject to prolonged debates, particularly in the Rajya Sabha, where a record-long sitting of over 17 hours was held to deliberate on the proposed changes.

In the Rajya Sabha, the Bill was passed with 128 members in favour and 98 against. The extended sitting saw heated discussions as opposition parties voiced concerns about the implications of the amendments, which they argued could have adverse consequences for the management of Waqf properties across the country. Despite the objections, the government managed to secure a majority vote in favour of the Bill.

Following its passage in Parliament, the Bill was sent to the President of India for final assent, a procedural requirement before it could become law. The assent was granted recently, clearing the way for the amendments to take effect.

The Waqf Act, which now includes several changes aimed at streamlining the governance of Waqf properties. The amendments focus on ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the management of Waqf institutions and addressing longstanding issues related to land encroachments and mismanagement.

The government argue that the amendments  in Waqf system will help improve the overall functioning of Waqf boards, ensuring better utilisation of assets for the welfare of the community. However, critics claim that the changes could undermine the autonomy of Waqf bodies and lead to greater political interference.

Notably,the government notified the Bill as law amid many who moved the SC against the Bill.

In this image from April 7, 2025, people protest against the newly passed Waqf (Amendment) Act in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Waqf Bill: A direct attack on India's secular structure, say religious and legal experts

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