New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Mussalman Waqf (Repeal) Bill, 2025 — two key legislations passed during the Budget Session of Parliament aimed at reforming the management of waqf properties in India.
The Law Ministry issued notifications on Saturday confirming the President’s approval. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was passed by the Lok Sabha with 288 votes in favour and 232 against, while the Rajya Sabha cleared it with 128 ayes and 95 nays.
Hailing the development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the legislation as a “watershed moment” in India’s journey toward socio-economic justice and inclusive growth.
“The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Waqf (Repeal) Bill marks a significant step toward transparency and empowerment. These reforms will especially benefit those who have long remained on the margins, denied both voice and opportunity,” he said in a post on X.
First introduced in August 2024 and later revised based on recommendations from a Joint Parliamentary Committee, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill seeks to modernize and streamline the governance of waqf properties. It introduces tech-enabled solutions for the registration and management of waqf assets, aims to speed up the survey and dispute resolution processes, and empowers stakeholders for better oversight.
The repeal of the century-old Mussalman Waqf Act of 1923 is seen as a complementary move, removing outdated provisions and paving the way for a unified, transparent legal framework for waqf administration.
The reforms are expected to enhance the functioning of Waqf Boards, ensure better record-keeping, and protect community assets through greater accountability and digital oversight.
