Waqf Act Amendment Row: 2 Women to Be Part of National Council, More Female Representation in Boards

New Delhi: Modi government is set to introduce a bill in Parliament to amend 1995 law governing Waqf boards, aiming to improve accountability and transparency in ir functioning. proposed changes include ensuring inclusion of two women in National Waqf Council and guaranteeing women's representation across Waqf Boards. 

bill, which is set to be introduced in Lok Sabha, also aims to rename Waqf Act, 1995, to Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Act, 1995. draft bill was circulated among Lok Sabha members on Tuesday night in preparation for its introduction.

Proposed Changes in Waqf Act

forthcoming bill seeks to rename Waqf Act, 1995, to Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Act, 1995. It was circulated to Lok Sabha members on Tuesday night in anticipation of its introduction. Key amendments include:

• Omission of Section 40: bill proposes removing Section 40, which currently grants board authority to determine if a property is Waqf property.
• Enhanced Representation: bill calls for a broer composition of Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards, ensuring inclusion of Muslim women and non-Muslims.
• New Boards: It suggests establishing a separate Board of Auqaf for Boharas and Aghakhanis, and ensures representation of various Muslim communities, including Shias, Sunnis, Bohras, Agakhanis, and or backward classes.
• Clear Definition of Waqf: bill aims to define 'Waqf' as property dedicated by any person practicing Islam for at least five years and owning such property.
• Streamlined Registration: It introduces a central portal and database for Waqf registration and outlines a detailed procedure for property mutation in accordance with revenue laws, with proper notice to all concerned parties.

What is Waqf?

Waqf refers to permanent dedication of movable or immovable property for religious, pious, or charitable purposes as recognized by Muslim law. This involves endowing property—wher tangible or intangible—to God, with aim of benefiting those in need. management of Waqf properties is overseen by a central Waqf board and various state boards.

What is Waqf Act?

Waqf Act was initially passed by Parliament in 1954 but was later repealed and replaced by a new Waqf Act in 1995, which conferred greater powers to Waqf Boards. An amendment in 2013 furr expanded se powers, allowing Waqf Board to designate properties as 'Waqf Property.'

What Are Proposed Amendments?

government is considering 32-40 amendments to Waqf Act. Proposed changes include:

• Property Registration: Mandating Waqf Board to register its properties with District Collector's office for evaluation.
• Inclusivity: Ensuring women's representation on Central Waqf Council and state boards.
• Judicial Scrutiny: Allowing judicial review of Waqf properties to verify ir status as Waqf assets.

Waqf Properties

Waqf board is one of largest landholders in India, ranking third after Railways and Defence department. It manages 872,292 registered Waqf properties across 800,000 acres, generating approximately Rs 200 crore in revenue. Approximately 200 individuals oversee state Waqf boards.