What is Waqf (Amendment) Bill? All you need to know | India News

NEW DELHI: The central government is all set to be tabled the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Parliament on Wednesday amid strong resistance from the opposition.
While the BJP-led government claims that the bill would improve the administration and management of Waqf properties in the country, the opposition has termed it a “targeted legislation” and “fundamentally against the Constitutional provisions.”
BJP’s allies — TDP and JDU — have offered their support to the bill, with Bihar CM Nitish Kumar-led JDU urging the legislation’s implementation not be retroactive.
Here’s all you need to know about the bill:

What are the names of the bills and when were they introduced?

The name of the two bills are- Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024. It was introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 8, 2024.

What is its objective?

It aims to modify the Waqf Act, 1995, to address challenges in the regulation and oversight of Waqf properties. The proposed amendments focus on enhancing the administration and ensuring more effective management of Waqf assets across India.

What are the issues regarding Waqf board?

Following are the issues regarding the Waqf board, according to the central government:

How will the bill benefit the poor?

Here are key FAQs regarding the bill:

How many non-Muslim stakeholders would be there?
In State Waqf boards, 2 out of 11 members (excluding ex-officio) can be non-Muslims. In central Waqf council, 2 out of 22 members (excluding ex-officio) can be non-Muslims.
What will be the impact of the separation of trusts from Waqf?
Muslim-created trusts will no longer be considered Waqf, ensuring full control over trusts.
How will technology improve Waqf management?
A centralized portal will automate Waqf property management, improving efficiency and transparency.
Who is eligible to dedicate property to Waqf?
Only practicing Muslims, for at least five years, can dedicate their property to Waqf, restoring pre-2013 rules.
What happens to ‘Waqf by user’ properties?
Registered properties remain Waqf unless disputed or identified as government land.
What are the rights of women in family Waqf?
Women must receive their inheritance before Waqf dedication, with special provisions for widows, divorced women, and orphans.
How will Waqf management be made more transparent?
Mutawallis must register property details on the central portal within six months.
How are Waqf disputes involving government land handled?
An officer above the rank of Collector will investigate government properties claimed as Waqf.
How will Waqf tribunals be strengthened?
A structured selection process and fixed tenure will ensure efficient dispute resolution.
What is the role of non-Muslims in Waqf management?
Two non-Muslim members will be included in the Central and State Waqf Boards for inclusivity.
How will annual contributions to Waqf Boards be reduced?
Waqf institutions’ mandatory contribution to Waqf Boards will be reduced from 7% to 5%.
How will the Limitation Act affect Waqf property claims?
The Limitation Act, 1963, will now apply to Waqf property claims, reducing prolonged litigation.
What are the new audit reforms for Waqf institutions?
Waqf institutions earning over Rs 1 lakh must undergo audits by State-appointed auditors.
What does the removal of Section 40 mean for property claims?
Section 40 is removed, preventing Waqf Boards from arbitrarily declaring properties as Waqf