Published Paper Details:

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, represents a dynamic change that was necessary to enhance the transparency, accountability, and inclusivity of the Waqf Properties' governance. Moreover, with the advent of digitalization and modern and updated technologies, the present bill demands the digitalization of the Waqf property records. Not only this, but restructuring the composition of Waqf Boards, introducing representation for Muslim women and backward communities, was highly commendable work done by this bill. Notably, it permits the inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf boards, making it more accountable and transparent, restricts the concept of "waqf by user," and applies the Limitation Act, 1963, to claims over Waqf land, which indeed a need of hour so that illegal encroachment and corruption in the name of God and Religion can be reduced to some extent. Though every coin has two sides, certain criticisms are faced by the present bill. Scholars contended that this bill will violate their Freedom of Religion and religious autonomy guaranteed under Article 26 of the Indian Constitution, and this will hamper their private religious spaces and undermine their religious sentiments and values. Legal proceedings have also been instituted, questioning its constitutional validity and religious significance. It is yet to be determined whether the good implication of the bill weighs more on the weak side or vice versa. But whatever the result will be, it must be ensured that it will respect the religious boundaries, autonomy, and well-being of the community and will not hamper justice. This paper examines the objectives, provisions, historical overview, arguments put forward, and implications of the Amendment in detail. It also examines the socio-political implications of the reforms and the emerging concerns of state involvement in the management of religious endowments.