India’s New Waqf Law Sparks Hope and Fear: Key Details on Transparency, Education, and Legal BattlesApril 7, 2025
New Delhi: India’s Parliament has approved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, a transformative law reshaping the governance of Muslim religious endowments. The bill, now awaiting implementation, has ignited nationwide debates over transparency, minority rights, and the future of Islamic education. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
What’s in the Bill?
- Digital Registration: All Waqf properties must be registered online within six months to curb encroachment and improve record-keeping.
- Non-Muslim Inclusion: Up to four non-Muslim members, including women, can join Waqf Boards, aiming to enhance accountability.
- Dispute Resolution: Land conflicts will now be resolved by government officials instead of Waqf tribunals, speeding up decisions.
- Repeal of Colonial Law: The outdated 1923 Mussalman Wakf Act is scrapped, streamlining governance under modern rules.
- Women’s Representation: Mandates two Muslim women on each board to address gender inequality in decision-making.
Government vs. Opposition: Clashing Views
Government Claims:
- PM Modi called the bill a “historic step” to combat corruption and misuse of Waqf assets, valued at over ₹1.2 lakh crore.
- Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated it aims to uplift marginalized Muslims, especially women and low-income groups, through better resource allocation .
Opposition & Muslim Groups:
- Critics, including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, allege the law “targets Muslim autonomy” and could enable property seizures. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) termed it “discriminatory” and plans Supreme Court challenges .
- Concerns also arise over documentation rules: many centuries-old mosques and graveyards lack formal papers, risking disputes .
Impact on Madrassas and Education
- Funding Concerns: Over 38,000 madrassas rely on Waqf income. Stricter audits and centralized control might reduce funds for Islamic education, affecting millions of students .
- Modernization Push: The bill’s supporters argue it could integrate science and math into madrassa curricula. However, budget cuts in schemes like SPEMM (Supporting Madrassa Education) have already strained resources .
Legal Battles Ahead
- The Supreme Court will hear petitions challenging the law’s constitutionality. Opposition parties argue it violates Articles 14 (equality) and 26 (religious freedom) .
- Legal experts are divided. Some, like Senior Advocate NDTV Opinion writer, claim the bill aligns with judicial precedents and empowers communities .
Historic Parliamentary Debate
- The Rajya Sabha saw a 17-hour marathon discussion, the longest in its history, reflecting the bill’s contentious nature. While BJP allies like JD(S) praised it, opposition leaders called it “anti-secular” .
What’s Next?
- Implementation will be closely watched, particularly its effect on India’s 200 million Muslims.
- Legal outcomes and potential protests could shape the law’s future.
Keywords: Waqf Bill 2025, Muslim education, Supreme Court challenge, Madrassa funding, Modi government, Minority rights.
For updates, follow official government releases and ongoing court hearings.