New Delhi: The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 officially came into force on Tuesday, April 8, following a Gazette notification issued by the Central Government. The Act had earlier received the assent of President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday, two days after being passed by both Houses of Parliament.

“In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of section 1 of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 (14 of 2025), the Central Government hereby appoints the 8th day of April, 2025 as the date on which the provisions of the said Act shall come into force,” read the official notification published in the Gazette of India.

Major reforms introduced in Waqf administration

The amended legislation brings substantial changes to the existing Waqf Act. Among its key reforms are the separation of trusts from Waqf entities, the introduction of digital tools for property management, and the creation of a centralised online portal to enhance transparency.

Other provisions include the restriction of Waqf property dedication to practising Muslims only, protection of 'Waqf by User' properties that have been historically used by the community, and the recognition of women's rights in family Waqf arrangements.

Parliamentary clearance followed extended debate

The Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha in the early hours of Friday, April 4, after a marathon 17-hour debate. The Lok Sabha had approved the Bill earlier in the same week.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the passage of the legislation as a "watershed moment" in India's efforts to reform and modernise the management of Waqf properties.

Opposition backlash and legal challenge in Supreme Court

Despite government claims of increased transparency and equitable representation of Muslim communities, the legislation has drawn strong criticism from several opposition parties. Critics have accused the Centre of pushing a polarising agenda under the guise of reform.

In response to the Act’s implementation, multiple Public Interest Litigations (PILs) have been filed in the Supreme Court, challenging its constitutional validity.

Anticipating legal challenges, the Centre has filed a caveat in the apex court, requesting that no orders be passed without hearing its side.

With IANS inputs