The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 proposes several key changes related to the management and administration of Waqf properties in India. Here are the highlights:
Powers of Waqf Boards:
The bill omits Section 40, which previously empowered Waqf Boards to decide whether a property qualifies as a Waqf property.
Now, the decision will be made by the District Collector, a Civil Service official.
Composition of Waqf Council and State Boards:
The Central Waqf Council and state Waqf Boards must include two women as members.
The Central Waqf Council will consist of a Union Minister, MPs, representatives of Muslim organizations, Muslim law experts, ex-judges, and individuals of national repute (with at least two women).
These changes were necessary to accommodate non-Muslim members on the Council and Boards.
Registration and Survey:
Notice is required before registering any property as Waqf, and this registration must occur on a centralized website.
The authority for surveying Waqf properties now lies with the District Collector or their deputy.
Donations and Welfare:
Only practicing Muslims can donate their property to the Waqf Council or Board.
Money received by the Waqf Board must be used for the welfare of widows, divorcees, and orphans, as suggested by the government.
