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Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 is passed by Parliament, and a BJD MP supports it in the Rajya Sabha. What comes next? Ten points

Richa Pandey
04 Apr, 2025

The Indian Parliament recently passed the **Waqf Amendment Bill 2025**, marking a significant development in the regulation of waqf properties across the country. The bill, which received support from **Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP** in the Rajya Sabha, aims to bring reforms in the management, transparency, and accountability of waqf assets. With its passage, several key changes are expected in the administration of waqf boards. Here’s a look at **10 key points on what comes next**:

1. Strengthened Waqf Boards**

The amendment seeks to empower state waqf boards with greater administrative and financial autonomy. This includes streamlining the process of leasing waqf properties and ensuring better revenue generation.

2. Digitalization of Waqf Records**

One of the major reforms is the **digitization of waqf records** to prevent encroachments and illegal transactions. A centralized database will be created to track all waqf properties, ensuring transparency.

3. Stricter Penalties for Encroachments**

The bill introduces **harsher penalties** for illegal occupation or misuse of waqf land. Unauthorized occupants may face fines and even imprisonment, deterring future encroachments.

4. Faster Dispute Resolution**

To reduce prolonged legal battles, the amendment proposes **special tribunals** for quicker resolution of waqf-related disputes. This will help in reclaiming disputed properties faster.

5. Increased Government Oversight**

The Central Waqf Council will have **enhanced supervisory powers** over state waqf boards to ensure compliance with rules and prevent corruption.

6. Social and Educational Development**

A portion of waqf income will be **mandatorily allocated** for educational and social welfare schemes, particularly for the Muslim community, in line with the original purpose of waqf properties.

7. Leasing and Commercial Use**

The bill allows **long-term leasing** of waqf properties for commercial purposes, boosting revenue that can be reinvested in community welfare programs.

8. Opposition and Political Reactions**

While the bill received **cross-party support**, some opposition members raised concerns about **government interference** in waqf management. The BJD’s backing, however, helped ensure smooth passage in the Rajya Sabha.

9. Implementation Challenges**

Despite the reforms, challenges such as **bureaucratic delays, corruption, and resistance from encroachers** may slow down effective implementation.

10. Future Reforms

This amendment could pave the way for **further reforms**, including private sector partnerships in waqf property development and better utilization of underused assets.

Conclusion

The Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 is a step towards **modernizing and optimizing** the management of India’s vast waqf properties, estimated to be worth **lakhs of crores**. If implemented effectively, it could bring **greater transparency, financial growth, and social benefits** for the Muslim community. The next phase will depend on how state waqf boards adopt these changes and enforce the new provisions.

**What’s your take on these reforms?** Should the government take more steps to protect waqf lands? Let us know in the comments!