Explained: What are the key changes proposed in the Waqf Amendment Bill?

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 8 last year, was referred to a 31-member Joint Parliamentary Committee, chaired by BJP leader Jagdambika Pal, for consultation. The committee is expected to present its report on the contentious legislation during the upcoming Budget session of Parliament, commencing on January 31. Notably, the committee has so far proposed 572 amendments to the draft Bill.

Before delving into the various intricacies of the Bill, let us first understand what exactly are Waqf properties and how they are regulated in India.

In Islamic law, waqf refers to any property dedicated in the name of God for religious and charitable purposes. The proceeds from such properties are typically used to maintain mosques, fund schools or provide for the poor. However, once designated as waqf, the property cannot be transferred through inheritance, sold, or given away.

In India, waqfs are governed by the Waqf Act of 1995. These properties are identified and delineated through surveys conducted by the State government, and each waqf is managed by a mutawalli (custodian) responsible for its administration.

What are some of the key changes that the Bill has proposed?

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