On April 5, 2025, India witnessed a transformative moment as President Droupadi Murmu signed the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, into law. Officially renamed the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Act, 1995, this legislation is a bold leap toward modernizing the management of Waqf properties—Islamic endowments dedicated to charity and faith. After heated debates spanning over 17 hours in Parliament, this Act promises to breathe new life into a system long hampered by inefficiency and misuse. For the common person, it’s a chance to see real change—better schools, healthcare, and opportunities funded by Waqf wealth. Let’s explore how this law reshapes the future, simply and powerfully.
In This Article:
A Fresh Start with Transparency
Imagine a sprawling network of 38 lakh acres of land—mosques, orphanages, and fields—meant to uplift the poor but often lost to neglect or corruption. The Waqf Amendment Act changes that with a digital revolution. Every property will be mapped and recorded online, making it easy to track how they’re used. No more shadowy deals or wasted potential. Experts estimate this could generate Rs. 12,000 crore yearly for Waqf Boards—money that can build hospitals, educate kids, and house the needy. It’s like turning a forgotten resource into a lifeline for millions.
Empowerment for All
This Act isn’t just about numbers; it’s about people. For the first time, the Central Waqf Council will include two women and two non-Muslims, bringing fresh perspectives to the table. Women, especially, get a big win—stronger inheritance rights mean they can claim their share of Waqf properties, a step toward financial independence. It’s a quiet but powerful shift, ensuring that everyone, not just a select few, benefits from these endowments. This inclusivity is the heart of the law’s promise.
Fairness and Accountability
The Act tackles misuse head-on. District Collectors will now survey disputed lands to decide if they’re Waqf or government-owned, stopping unfair takeovers. Protected monuments, like historic mosques, can’t be claimed without proof, preserving heritage. If disputes arise, High Courts will have the final say, ensuring justice isn’t buried in bureaucracy. It’s a system designed to protect what’s sacred while keeping power in check—a balance that’s long overdue.
The Road to Reform
Getting here wasn’t easy. Parliament saw fierce debates—17 hours in Rajya Sabha alone, the longest ever for a bill! Critics, like Asaduddin Owaisi, warn it meddles with religious freedom, and the Supreme Court is already hearing challenges. Yet, champions like Prime Minister Narendra Modi call it a “game-changer” for the marginalized, especially Muslim women and the poor. With the law set to take effect soon via a government notification, the stage is set for a showdown—and a shot at progress.
The Waqf Amendment Act is more than a legal update; it’s a vision of hope. It takes a centuries-old tradition and equips it for today’s world, promising transparency, fairness, and empowerment. For the average Indian, it could mean tangible benefits—better community services funded by Waqf riches. As India waits for its rollout, one thing is clear: this Act isn’t just about managing property; it’s about unlocking potential, bridging divides, and building a future where charity truly changes lives. The dawn of a new era is here, and it’s shining bright.
-By Manoj H
