Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 was recently introduced in the Lok Sabha, aimed at overhauling the management and oversight of waqf properties across India.

What is Waqf?

• Waqf refers to properties dedicated for religious or charitable purposes under Islamic law.
• Once established, waqf properties cannot be revoked.
• India has around 30 waqf boards managing ~9 lakh acres of land valued at Rs 1.2 lakh crore, making them significant landowners.
• The Waqf Act, 1995 was previously amended in 2013 based on a parliamentary report.

[ref-TOI]

[ref-the statesman]

Objectives of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024:

• To reform the registration and management processes of waqf properties.
• To enhance the efficiency and transparency in the administration of waqf properties.

Key Features

• Renaming of the Act: The bill proposes renaming the Waqf Act, 1995 to the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Act.
• Central and State Waqf Councils
  • Establishment of a Central Waqf Council alongside state Waqf Boards.
  • Inclusion of representation from Muslim women and non-Muslims on these councils and boards.
• Role of District Collector
  • District Collector will determine if a property is waqf or government land, replacing the Waqf Tribunal’s role.
• Board of Auqaf: Creation of a separate Board of Auqaf for Boharas and Aghakhanis, ensuring broader representation.
• Audit and Oversight: Central government can initiate audits of waqf properties through auditors appointed by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.
• Waqfnama Requirement: Introduction of a valid waqfnama (official deed) to formalize the dedication of a property as waqf, replacing the previous allowance for oral agreements.
• Registration of Waqf Properties: A centralized portal will be established to register waqf properties within six months of the act’s commencement.
• Definition of Waqf: Only individuals practicing Islam for at least 5 years and owning the property can declare it as waqf.
• Changes to Waqf Board Composition
  • Boards will include non-Muslim members and representatives from various Muslim sects and communities.
  • At least 2 members must be women, and representation from Shias, Sunnis, Bohras, and Aghakhanis will be ensured.
• Survey and Dispute Resolution
  • Empowerment of Collectors to conduct surveys and resolve disputes related to waqf properties.
  • The Tribunal’s composition and appeal process have been modified, including the removal of provisions for finality of Tribunal decisions.
• Powers of the Central Government: Central government is authorized to make rules regarding the registration, audit, and publication of waqf accounts and proceedings.

[ref-the statesman]

[ref-the statesman]

Ref: Source

UPSC IAS Preparation Resources
Current Affairs Analysis	Topperspedia
GS Shots	Simply Explained
Daily Flash Cards	Daily Quiz