What Is the Waqf Bill, and Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
The Waqf Bill 2025 has made big changes to how religious land is given and managed in India. This article explains everything in simple terms, with real-life examples, so that everyone can understand what’s happening and why it matters.
In India, some people donate land or buildings for religious or public good — like for building mosques, schools, graveyards, or charity work.
This type of donation is called Waqf (pronounced as wakf).
The Waqf Board is a government body that looks after these religious properties.
Recently, a new law called the Waqf Bill 2025 was passed, which changes how Waqf properties are made and managed. It’s been in the news because it affects land, religion, and law — all important topics in India.
Let’s Start With a Simple Example
Imagine Rafiq, a Muslim man, owns a piece of land. He wants to donate this land to build a mosque. He registers it under the Waqf Board, and from that day, this land becomes Waqf property — it can’t be sold or used for personal gain anymore. It’s now meant only for religious use.
Earlier, even non-Muslims could make such donations. But the new bill has changed this.
What Has Changed in the Waqf Bill 2025?
1. Only Muslims Can Create Waqf Property Now
Old Rule: Anyone (even non-Muslims) could donate land under Waqf.
New Rule: Only Muslims can donate land under Waqf — and they must be Muslims for at least 5 years.
Example: Earlier, a Hindu could donate land for a Muslim graveyard. Now, only a Muslim can do that — and only if they have followed Islam for 5 years or more.
2. No More “Waqf by Usage”
Earlier, if land was used for religious purposes for a long time (even without legal proof), it could be declared as Waqf property.
Example: If people prayed on someone’s open land for years, the Waqf Board could say that the land now belongs to them.
New Rule: This kind of rule is now removed. Waqf can only be created if the owner legally donates the land and registers it properly.
3. Clear Paperwork Is Now a Must
Now, no one can just say “this land is Waqf” without documents. The donation must be written down, signed, and officially accepted.
This helps stop fake claims and land disputes.
4. Waqf Property Cannot Be Easily Sold or Leased
Waqf land is meant for public or religious use. The new rules make it harder to misuse or sell these lands for profit. There will be more audits and checks.
Example: If someone is using Waqf land for a shop, they must follow rules and pay rent properly — no backdoor business.
Why Was This Bill Needed?
Many people complained that:
Waqf Boards were taking over land without permission.
Private lands were being claimed as Waqf without legal proof.
Landowners and even government departments got stuck in long legal fights.
The new law tries to protect private property and make sure Waqf properties are handled legally and fairly.
How Does It Affect You?
Even if you’re not Muslim or don’t donate land, this law matters because:
It protects property rights — so no one can falsely claim your land.
It helps avoid religious land conflicts.
It ensures transparency in how religious donations are managed.
