Kiren Rijiju Introduces Waqf Amendment Bill, Questions Utilization of Waqf Properties
New Delhi: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday introduced the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha, questioning why Waqf properties have not been utilized for the education, healthcare, and economic upliftment of poor Muslims.
Rijiju pointed out that India has the highest number of Waqf properties in the world but argued that their potential remains largely untapped for nation-building and community welfare.
“When our country has the largest Waqf property in the world, why hasn’t it been used for the education, medical treatment, skill development, and income generation of poor Muslims? Why has no progress been made in this regard so far?” Rijiju asked in Parliament.
Increase in Waqf Properties and Income
The minister also highlighted the growth in the number of Waqf properties in India, stating that their count had increased from 4.9 lakh in 2006 to 8.72 lakh at present. However, he pointed out that despite this expansion, the income from Waqf properties has increased only marginally, from ₹163 crore in 2006 to ₹166 crore after the 2013 amendments.
Broader Representation in Waqf Boards
Rijiju clarified that the proposed amendment would ensure broader representation in Waqf boards, including Shia, Sunni, Bohra, backward Muslims, women, and even expert non-Muslim members.
“Now, the Waqf Board will include representatives from diverse Muslim communities, and for the first time, women members will be made compulsory,” he said.
He also explained that, under the revised structure, non-Muslim experts could be appointed, citing his own position as Minority Affairs Minister as an example.
Digitization and Transparency
Rijiju emphasized that the amendments would introduce a centralized database and digital portal for better management of Waqf properties, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
“No one will be able to create or misuse Waqf properties in secrecy anymore. The registration, tracking, and monitoring mechanisms will be strengthened,” he asserted.
The minister also said that auditing of Waqf properties would be entrusted to state governments to ensure better financial accountability.
Repeal of Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923
Along with the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, Rijiju also introduced the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, seeking to repeal the outdated 1923 law.
The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, was previously introduced in the Lok Sabha in August last year and was examined by a Joint Parliamentary Committee headed by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal. The bill aims to streamline Waqf administration, improve governance, and enhance the use of technology in managing Waqf records.
The proposed amendments are expected to spark intense debate in Parliament, with opposition parties already raising concerns over potential government overreach in religious affairs.
