Tue Apr 01 18:38:21 UTC 2025: ## Revised Waqf Bill to Protect Existing Properties, Addresses Previous Concerns

**New Delhi, April 2, 2025** – A revised Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, set to be presented in Parliament on Wednesday, aims to alleviate concerns raised about the previous version. The key change protects the ownership of existing Waqf properties unless they are disputed or government-owned. This provision, absent in the August 2024 Bill, addresses criticism from the Muslim community and minority organizations.

The original bill sparked controversy due to proposals including non-Muslims and Muslim women on Waqf Boards, restricting Boards’ power to declare properties as Waqf, and other alterations. Subsequently, it underwent review by a Joint Parliamentary Committee.

While most provisions remain unchanged in the revised Bill, key modifications address concerns raised by NDA allies, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal(U). The new Bill clarifies that “Waqf by user” properties registered before the Act’s commencement will remain Waqf properties unless disputed or government-owned. It also mandates the registration of all pre-existing Waqf properties on a government portal within six months, with provisions for extensions under specific circumstances.

A significant change involves the determination of government-owned Waqf properties. Instead of Collectors, the revised bill empowers states to designate an officer above the rank of Collector to conduct inquiries and submit reports to the state government. Disputed properties will remain in limbo until the designated officer’s report is submitted. The revised Bill will be presented to Parliament on Wednesday.

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