The Union government has tabled the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha.
This legislation aims to reform the registration process for the waqf properties through a centralised portal.
It seeks to rename the existing Waqf Act of 1995 to the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act.
The Waqf pertains to properties that are designated exclusively for religious or charitable purposes in accordance with Islamic law.
Once a property is established as waqf, it cannot be revoked.
With approximately 30 waqf boards managing over 9 lakh acres of land valued at an estimated Rs 1.2 lakh crore.
Waqf boards rank as the third-largest landowners in India, following the Railways and the Defence Ministry.
The bill proposes the establishing of a Central Waqf Council alongside state Waqf Boards.
Notably, these bodies will have representation from Muslim women and non-Muslims.
It also has a provision to appoint two women to all state boards as well as to the central council.
It designates the District Collector as the primary authority in determining whether a property is classified as waqf or government land.
This shifts the responsibility away from the Waqf Tribunal.
The legislation outlines the creation of a separate Board of Auqaf specifically for the Boharas and Aghakhanis, ensuring representation for Shias, Sunnis, Bohras, and Aghakhanis within waqf boards.