For centuries, waqf has been an integral part of Islamic society, serving as a mechanism for preserving wealth and supporting communal welfare. It is a sacred trust—a voluntary endowment created for religious, educational, and social purposes, often ensuring the continuity of mosques, madrasas, orphanages, and other charitable institutions. As Muslims, we hold the concept of waqf close to our hearts, knowing that it is not just about property, but about faith, responsibility, and service to the community.

However, the recent Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, passed by the Indian government, has ignited widespread debate, raising concerns about its impact on religious freedom and the management of waqf properties. The amendments introduced under this law are being viewed by many as a challenge to the autonomy of waqf institutions, with particular concerns about the removal of "Waqf by User" status and the increased government oversight over waqf boards.

Muslims across India worry that these changes could pave the way for mass deregistration of waqf properties, affecting thousands of religious sites and charitable trusts that have been safeguarded for generations. Critics argue that while the government cites transparency and efficiency as key reasons for reform, there is also an underlying concern that these amendments could lead to political interference in Muslim religious affairs.

The discourse surrounding this law is not merely about legal provisions—it is deeply emotional and historical. From the Mughal era to contemporary India, waqf has played a vital role in preserving Islamic heritage. The act of dedicating land or assets for religious purposes has ensured the survival of mosques, Sufi shrines, and institutions that have served the poor and underprivileged. The latest amendment, however, has led many Muslims to question whether the sanctity of waqf will be upheld or whether this move signifies a gradual erosion of minority rights.

At its core, this controversy raises a fundamental question about the balance between state control and religious autonomy. Should the government regulate waqf properties, or should these institutions remain independent in accordance with Islamic law? The responses to this question vary, but the overwhelming sentiment among many Muslim scholars, community leaders, and legal experts is that the amendments must be carefully scrutinized to prevent unintended consequences.

As protests unfold and legal petitions are filed in the Supreme Court, the debate over waqf governance continues. It is crucial for Indian Muslims to remain engaged in this conversation, ensuring that their voices are heard. The future of waqf institutions depends on collective action, legal discourse, and a commitment to preserving this cherished tradition in a way that is just, transparent, and respectful of religious heritage.

1. Historical Significance of Waqf in India

Origins and Concept of Waqf

The concept of waqf has been deeply rooted in Islamic traditions for centuries. Derived from the Arabic word waqf, meaning "to stop" or "to hold in trust," waqf refers to an endowment made voluntarily for religious, social, and charitable purposes. In Islamic jurisprudence, waqf is considered an irrevocable act—once an asset is designated as waqf, it ceases to be privately owned and instead serves the community indefinitely. The idea behind waqf is rooted in Sadaqah Jariyah, or perpetual charity, which allows wealth to be preserved for public benefit while ensuring the spiritual reward of the donor.

Early Development and Mughal Patronage

The history of waqf in India dates back to the early medieval period when Islamic rulers established charitable institutions and religious trusts to support their communities. However, it was during the Mughal era (1526–1857) that waqf saw significant expansion. Mughal emperors, including Akbar, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb, allocated vast lands and properties to waqf trusts, ensuring the maintenance of mosques, madrasas, hospitals, and pilgrimage sites.

Several prominent waqf establishments during the Mughal period played a crucial role in shaping the socio-religious landscape of India:

• Jama Masjid (Delhi): Funded through waqf by Shah Jahan, this grand mosque remains a symbol of Islamic heritage in India.
• Fatehpuri Mosque (Delhi): Established under a waqf endowment, supporting religious learning and social welfare.
• Hospitals and Madrasas: The Mughals used waqf to provide medical care and education, setting up institutions such as Dar-ul-Shifa (House of Healing) for healthcare services.

This era marked the institutionalization of waqf as an essential part of governance, ensuring the welfare of Muslims in India and providing financial support to scholars, religious figures, and charitable projects.

Waqf Under British Rule: A Shift in Control

The arrival of the British colonial administration in the 18th and 19th centuries marked a turning point in waqf management. Under British governance, waqf properties faced legal challenges as the colonial rulers sought to centralize land administration. While the British recognized waqf as a legal institution, they introduced The Waqf Act of 1863, which transferred control of certain religious endowments to government-appointed trustees rather than traditional Islamic authorities.

This change had significant implications:

• Loss of Autonomy: Waqf institutions had to comply with government regulations, reducing their ability to function independently.
• Land Appropriation: Several waqf lands were confiscated or repurposed for state use, weakening religious institutions.
• Legal Disputes: Many waqf trusts entered legal battles over ownership and administrative rights.

Despite these challenges, Muslim intellectuals and leaders resisted British control over waqf, emphasizing its religious sanctity and demanding legal protections. This struggle culminated in later reforms aimed at safeguarding waqf properties.

Post-Independence Reforms: Government Regulation and Growth

After India gained independence in 1947, waqf governance underwent significant restructuring. The Waqf Act of 1954 was introduced to regulate waqf properties, followed by the Waqf Act of 1995, which strengthened the role of waqf boards in overseeing endowments.

The key features of these post-independence reforms included:

• Establishment of State Waqf Boards to manage waqf properties at the regional level.
• Enhanced legal protection against encroachments and unauthorized property transfers.
• Measures to improve transparency in waqf administration to prevent corruption and misuse.

By 2025, waqf properties accounted for nearly 6 lakh acres of land in India, serving thousands of mosques, madrasas, and charitable institutions. These properties continued to provide vital social services such as free education for underprivileged children, healthcare for marginalized communities, and financial aid for religious activities.

Social and Cultural Significance of Waqf

Beyond legal frameworks, waqf has played an irreplaceable role in shaping Muslim identity and social cohesion in India. It serves as an economic safety net, ensuring that religious and educational institutions receive sustained funding without dependence on external sources. Additionally, waqf has fostered community-driven welfare, providing free food distribution, scholarships, and healthcare services to those in need.

Several Sufi shrines and Islamic heritage sites in India have survived through waqf endowments, preserving centuries-old traditions and ensuring spiritual continuity. Notable examples include:

• Ajmer Sharif Dargah (Rajasthan)
• Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya Dargah (Delhi)
• Charminar Waqf Lands (Hyderabad)

These waqf-supported institutions remain deeply ingrained in India's cultural fabric, attracting devotees and scholars while safeguarding Islamic teachings and traditions.

Challenges and The Path Forward

Despite its historic significance, waqf faces modern challenges, including land disputes, bureaucratic hurdles, and governmental interventions. The recent Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, has intensified debates around the future of waqf in India, with concerns about state interference and deregistration of religious sites.

Looking ahead, safeguarding waqf requires:

1. Legal Awareness: Educating waqf trustees and beneficiaries about their rights under constitutional law.
2. Strong Community Engagement: Mobilizing Muslim scholars and activists to advocate for waqf protection.
3. Policy Reforms: Ensuring that waqf laws are revised to prevent misuse while retaining religious autonomy.

The historical journey of waqf in India—from its Mughal patronage to British disruptions and modern reforms—illustrates its deep-rooted spiritual, social, and economic significance. As Muslims navigate contemporary challenges, preserving waqf institutions remains a collective responsibility, ensuring that this legacy continues to serve generations to come.

2. The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025: Key Provisions

The Need for Reform or Controversy?

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, has emerged as one of the most debated legislative developments in recent times, particularly within India's Muslim community. While the government has positioned the amendment as a step toward improved transparency, accountability, and governance, critics argue that it threatens waqf autonomy and opens the door to excessive government control over religious institutions. This law introduces several key provisions that reshape the legal framework of waqf management, impacting thousands of mosques, madrasas, and charitable institutions across the country.

Removal of "Waqf by User" Status

One of the most controversial elements of the new legislation is the removal of the "Waqf by User" status, a provision that previously allowed properties that were traditionally used for religious purposes—such as mosques or burial grounds—to be legally protected as waqf assets, even if they were not formally registered. This status ensured that longstanding religious sites could not be easily appropriated or repurposed.

The amendment, however, now requires strict registration and documentation of all waqf properties to maintain their legal status. Critics fear that this change could lead to the deregistration of many religious sites, especially in cases where documentation might be incomplete or disputed due to historical complexities. There is apprehension that this provision may provide an opportunity for encroachments or government intervention in waqf-owned land.

Government Oversight and Stricter Regulations

The amendment significantly increases government oversight of waqf properties, requiring waqf boards to adhere to new audit mechanisms, bureaucratic approvals, and financial disclosures. The rationale behind these measures is to prevent mismanagement, corruption, and illegal transfers of waqf land—issues that have plagued some waqf boards over the years.

However, critics worry that these additional regulations could result in government interference in religious affairs, leading to delays in waqf operations and limiting the autonomy of waqf trustees. Some experts argue that waqf boards should have self-regulating mechanisms within the community rather than relying on state-appointed officials who may lack an understanding of religious values and traditions associated with waqf.

Appointment of Non-Muslims to Waqf Boards

Another contentious provision in the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 is the decision to allow non-Muslims to be appointed to waqf boards. Previously, waqf boards were exclusively managed by Muslims, ensuring that religious properties were governed by those familiar with Islamic endowment principles. The new law changes this framework, permitting governmentappointed administrators, including non-Muslims, to be part of waqf management.

The government's stance is that diversifying waqf governance will improve transparency and prevent monopolization within the waqf system. However, religious scholars and waqf leaders fear that this move dilutes the Islamic essence of waqf institutions, possibly leading to decisions that prioritize bureaucratic interests over religious obligations. Some have raised concerns that non-Muslim board members may not fully understand the importance of waqf principles and may inadvertently facilitate policies that weaken traditional waqf structures.

Impact on Religious and Charitable Institutions

The law’s implementation could significantly affect thousands of mosques, madrasas, orphanages, and other religious institutions that rely on waqf funding and legal protection. With stricter documentation requirements and governance rules, many institutions worry about their future stability.

Key concerns include:

• Risk of Deregistration: Religious sites with incomplete documentation may lose their waqf status, potentially falling under government control.
• Financial Complications: Increased auditing requirements could delay financial aid for community welfare projects, affecting free education and healthcare services supported by waqf funds.
• Encroachment Issues: Deregistered properties might be vulnerable to commercial development, leading to disputes between religious bodies and state authorities.

While the government argues that these reforms will strengthen waqf integrity, religious bodies fear that such measures could erode waqf independence, making it more susceptible to external pressures.

Legal and Political Responses

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, has sparked considerable legal challenges, with various Muslim organizations, scholars, and opposition leaders questioning its constitutionality. Over 70 petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court, arguing that the law infringes upon the autonomy of religious institutions protected under Articles 25 and 26 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantee religious freedom and the right to manage religious affairs independently.

Public protests and political debates have further intensified the discourse around waqf governance. Opposition parties and minority representatives have urged the government to reconsider provisions that limit religious institutions' autonomy. Meanwhile, Muslim activists have mobilized to raise awareness about the potential repercussions of the amendment, advocating for legal safeguards to protect waqf assets.

The Future of Waqf Governance in India

While the government insists that the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 is a necessary step toward reform, its long-term effects remain uncertain. If the law leads to transparent administration, fair governance, and efficient utilization of waqf resources, it could benefit the community. However, if concerns over government interference, bureaucratic hurdles, and deregistration prove valid, waqf institutions may face significant challenges in preserving their independence and religious identity.

Moving forward, the Muslim community must engage in constructive dialogue with policymakers, advocate for balanced reforms, and pursue legal avenues to ensure waqf remains protected as a sacred trust for future generations. A well-defined legal structure that respects waqf’s religious essence while ensuring ethical governance will be crucial in shaping its future trajectory.

3. Legal and Constitutional Concerns of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025

The Intersection of Law and Religious Autonomy

The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 has led to significant concerns within India’s Muslim community regarding its impact on religious institutions. Legal experts, opposition leaders, and community representatives argue that the amendments infringe upon constitutional rights by altering the governance framework of waqf properties. The removal of "Waqf by User" status, increased government oversight, and the appointment of non-Muslim members to waqf boards have raised critical legal questions that now rest before the Supreme Court of India.

With over 70 petitions filed, the judiciary faces the crucial responsibility of determining whether the amendments violate Articles 25 and 26 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantee religious freedom and the autonomy of religious institutions. If the law is upheld, it could set a precedent for increased state control over religious properties. If struck down, it would reaffirm the independence of minority institutions and their right to self-governance.

The Constitutional Debate: Religious Freedom vs. Government Control

India’s Constitution provides explicit protections for religious freedoms under Part III, which enumerates the Fundamental Rights of Citizens. The following constitutional provisions are particularly relevant to the debate surrounding the waqf amendments:

• Article 25 (Freedom of Religion): Guarantees all individuals the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate their religion. Critics argue that increased state control over waqf properties limits the ability of Muslims to manage their religious endowments independently.
• Article 26 (Rights of Religious Denominations): Grants religious groups the autonomy to establish and manage institutions for religious and charitable purposes. The appointment of non-Muslim members to waqf boards and stricter government oversight may interfere with this autonomy.
• Article 30 (Rights of Minorities): Protects the right of religious minorities to administer their own institutions without undue interference. While the government claims the waqf amendments improve transparency, detractors argue that they disproportionately impact Muslim institutions without similar reforms for Hindu or Christian religious trusts.

Judicial Challenges: Petitions in the Supreme Court

Following the enactment of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, numerous religious bodies, legal scholars, and opposition parties filed petitions in the Supreme Court, challenging the constitutionality of its provisions. The core arguments against the law include:

1. The Removal of "Waqf by User" Status

The elimination of "Waqf by User" status has been widely criticized, with petitioners arguing that it opens the door for deregistration and potential government takeover of religious sites that lack formal documentation. Many historical mosques, graveyards, and shrines—often passed down informally within communities—could lose their waqf designation, leading to conflicts over ownership and usage.

Lawyers representing Muslim organizations have claimed that this move amounts to arbitrary seizure, violating property rights protected under Article 300A, which states that "no person shall be deprived of his property except by authority of law." They argue that the removal of "Waqf by User" status lacks adequate safeguards, increasing the risk of encroachments on religious lands.

2. Government Oversight and Bureaucratic Control

A central concern among petitioners is the increased role of government-appointed waqf boards in overseeing religious endowments. While the law is framed as an effort to improve transparency, critics fear it politicizes waqf governance and diminishes the community's ability to self-regulate.

Legal experts argue that state interference in waqf management may violate Article 26, which grants religious groups the right to run their institutions without external intrusion. Some lawyers have drawn parallels to Hindu religious trusts, pointing out that similar bureaucratic oversight has not been imposed on them, raising questions about equal treatment under the law. 3. The Appointment of Non-Muslims to Waqf Boards

Perhaps the most contentious aspect of the amendment is the inclusion of non-Muslims in waqf boards, which was previously restricted to Muslim members due to the religious nature of waqf endowments. Legal scholars and religious leaders argue that waqf governance should remain within the Muslim community, as it pertains specifically to Islamic law and endowment principles.

Petitioners contend that allowing non-Muslims to make decisions about waqf properties could result in policy changes that conflict with religious traditions, potentially leading to mismanagement or the repurposing of waqf assets in ways that contradict Islamic guidelines. Some opposition leaders have framed this provision as an encroachment on minority religious autonomy, citing Article 30, which guarantees minorities the right to administer their institutions.

Supreme Court’s Role in Deciding the Future of Waqf

The Supreme Court now faces the responsibility of determining whether the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 aligns with constitutional principles. The following potential outcomes are being closely monitored:

• Judicial Review and Partial Striking Down: The Court could choose to uphold some parts of the act while invalidating provisions that conflict with constitutional protections.
• Complete Repeal: If the Court finds overwhelming evidence of constitutional violations, it could strike down the act entirely, leading to fresh legislative discussions.
• Upholding the Law: If the Court rules that the amendments fall within the government’s jurisdiction, the act will remain in place, setting a precedent for increased state control over religious institutions.

Implications for Minority Rights in India

Beyond the immediate impact on waqf institutions, the Supreme Court’s ruling on this issue could have long-term consequences for religious minorities in India. The verdict will set a legal precedent regarding:

• State authority over religious governance
• Minority protections under Articles 25 and 26
• Equal application of laws across religious communities

If the waqf amendments are upheld, Muslim organizations may need to adapt to stricter regulations, improve documentation processes, and enhance legal advocacy to safeguard religious assets. If the amendments are overturned, it will serve as a reaffirmation of religious autonomy under India’s constitutional framework.

Balancing Governance and Religious Autonomy

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 represents a pivotal moment in the legal discourse surrounding religious institutions in India. While transparent administration and accountability are crucial for waqf governance, reforms must also respect religious freedoms and historical legacies. The Supreme Court’s forthcoming rulings will determine the trajectory of waqf management and minority rights in India.

The case underscores the delicate balance between state governance and religious independence, raising essential questions about constitutional protections, equal treatment, and religious self-determination. As the legal battle unfolds, the Muslim community and legal experts must remain engaged in advocacy, ensuring that waqf continues to fulfill its intended role without compromising its religious sanctity.

4. Impact on Waqf Properties and Institutions

A Critical Juncture for Waqf in India

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 has generated deep concerns within the Muslim community regarding its potential repercussions on religious and charitable institutions across India. Waqf properties, historically safeguarded for religious and social welfare purposes, now face new regulatory challenges that could affect their autonomy, management, and accessibility. With thousands of mosques, madrasas, and waqf-supported institutions dependent on these properties, the reforms have raised serious questions about the future stability of waqf governance and its broader impact on minority rights.

Threat of Deregistration and Legal Disputes

A key issue arising from the amendment is the removal of the "Waqf by User" status, which previously ensured legal protection for religious properties that had been in continuous use but lacked official documentation. Many historical mosques and graveyards fall under this category, having been informally preserved by local communities over centuries.

With this change, thousands of waqf sites may lose their legal status, potentially leading to their deregistration and subsequent appropriation by private entities or government authorities. Once a site is removed from the waqf register, it may be repurposed for non-religious use, sparking disputes between local Muslims and administrative bodies.

Legal experts have cautioned that proving ownership through historical records could be an uphill battle, particularly for older waqf sites without formal documentation. The possibility of legal battles over land ownership—many of which could drag on for years in Indian courts— has left religious organizations anxious about their ability to retain control over waqf lands.

Impact on Religious Institutions: Mosques and Madrasas at Risk

Among the institutions most affected by the waqf reforms are mosques and madrasas, which rely on waqf endowments for their maintenance. The amendment introduces stricter government oversight, requiring detailed documentation, audits, and financial disclosures that may strain smaller institutions lacking administrative capacity.

Several madrasas that provide free education to underprivileged children could struggle to comply with new bureaucratic requirements, leading to delays in fund allocations and disruption of essential services. The uncertainty surrounding waqf status may also impact donor contributions, as individuals and organizations might hesitate to invest in properties whose legal status is unclear.

Mosques, especially those situated on waqf lands, may be required to undergo re-registration, raising fears that some could be deemed ineligible under new government criteria. This shift could result in closures, restrictions on religious practices, or repurposing of certain sites, fundamentally altering the religious landscape of affected areas.

Community Welfare: Schools, Hospitals, and Social Services Under Threat

Beyond religious sites, waqf plays a crucial role in social welfare, supporting hospitals, schools, and community centers that serve marginalized populations. In many regions, waqf-funded institutions provide free medical treatment, shelter for orphans, and vocational training, ensuring that disadvantaged communities receive essential services.

With the new governmental oversight and deregistration risks, many community-funded initiatives face instability. If waqf properties lose their legal protection, funding streams may dry up, affecting their ability to function effectively. In extreme cases, waqf hospitals could face acquisition or privatization, shifting their focus from charitable healthcare to commercial interests.

This uncertainty could force many schools and welfare organizations to shut down, depriving thousands of people—especially those from economically weaker sections—of education, healthcare, and financial aid. The broader socio-economic implications of this shift are profound, as waqf lands have historically ensured community self-sufficiency through sustainable charitable efforts.

Bureaucratic Challenges and Governance Issues

While proponents of the amendment argue that the reforms will increase transparency in waqf administration, waqf boards have expressed serious concerns regarding the administrative hurdles that may arise.

Some of the anticipated bureaucratic challenges include:

• Delays in approvals and audits, affecting routine waqf operations.
• Confusion over land records, leading to disputes and legal uncertainties.
• Increased paperwork requirements, which could hinder the efficiency of smaller waqf organizations.
• Potential political influence in waqf board decisions, shifting control away from traditional Islamic governance structures.

Several waqf boards fear that excessive government intervention may stifle their ability to function independently, leaving institutions at the mercy of administrative bottlenecks. With the already slow legal and bureaucratic processes in India, religious leaders worry that even well-managed waqf properties could be trapped in legal limbo, unable to fulfill their intended charitable or religious functions.

Encroachment and Commercial Interests

One of the biggest fears surrounding the waqf amendments is the potential encroachment of waqf lands for commercial purposes. With stricter documentation rules and deregistration risks, properties that no longer qualify as waqf could be acquired for urban development, leading to loss of religious sites and community spaces.

Instances of waqf land being repurposed for commercial projects have been documented in the past, particularly in metropolitan cities where land value is high. Critics argue that the new rules may create an avenue for property developers to claim waqf lands, rebranding them as state-owned assets open to urban expansion. If such practices become widespread, the religious and historical significance of waqf lands could be permanently diminished.

The Future of Waqf in India

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 has introduced new uncertainties into waqf governance, prompting fears of deregistration, bureaucratic delays, and potential encroachments. While the government emphasizes transparency and accountability, critics argue that the reforms prioritize bureaucratic control over religious autonomy, leaving waqf properties vulnerable to legal disputes and administrative hurdles.

The long-term impact of the reforms will depend on how waqf boards navigate the new regulations, whether the Supreme Court intervenes to safeguard constitutional protections, and how Muslim organizations mobilize to defend waqf assets. Preserving waqf as a communitydriven institution will require legal challenges, public awareness campaigns, and proactive measures to ensure that religious and social welfare institutions continue to function without disruption or political interference.

The coming years will be pivotal for waqf governance, with decisions made in courts, government offices, and local communities shaping the trajectory of Muslim religious and charitable institutions in India.

5. Role of the Muslim Community in Safeguarding Waqf

A Collective Responsibility

Waqf is not just a legal or administrative entity—it is a religious and social institution that serves as the backbone of Muslim welfare in India. However, with the recent amendments to the Waqf Act, concerns have risen about the autonomy and security of waqf properties. At this critical juncture, the Muslim community must actively participate in safeguarding waqf assets to ensure their intended purpose of religious, educational, and charitable service remains intact. Protecting waqf requires legal awareness, community mobilization, and sustained advocacy efforts.

Legal Awareness and Public Education

One of the most urgent steps in preserving waqf is enhancing legal awareness among stakeholders. Many waqf properties have suffered due to lack of documentation, encroachments, or mismanagement, often because trustees and beneficiaries are unaware of their legal rights and responsibilities.

Muslim scholars and legal experts have started community outreach programs to educate waqf trustees about proper documentation, land registration, and the legal framework surrounding waqf governance. Workshops and seminars conducted at mosques, madrasas, and community centers aim to empower local administrators, equipping them with the necessary tools to defend waqf institutions against potential threats.

Additionally, digital platforms and social media campaigns have played an essential role in spreading awareness. Organizations are now using online legal guides, videos, and webinars to ensure waqf trustees and the general public understand the implications of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 and the steps required to safeguard waqf assets.

Active Engagement with Policymakers

Legal reforms affecting waqf cannot be addressed without proactive engagement with government bodies. The Muslim community, particularly waqf boards, scholars, and activists, must establish constructive dialogue with lawmakers and legal institutions to ensure policies do not undermine waqf independence.

Efforts must be made to push for amendments that protect religious autonomy, while ensuring waqf boards maintain transparent and accountable governance. Legal representatives and community leaders should participate in policy discussions, parliamentary hearings, and advisory committees to influence future legislation affecting waqf.

Furthermore, liaising with constitutional experts and human rights organizations can strengthen the legal arguments presented in ongoing Supreme Court cases that challenge contentious provisions within the Waqf (Amendment) Act. Through legal representation and strategic lobbying, the Muslim community can help shape waqf reforms in a manner that respects its religious significance.

Legal Battles and Advocacy Campaigns

The judiciary plays an essential role in determining the fate of waqf institutions in India, and legal battles must be fought diligently. With multiple petitions filed against the waqf amendments, the Muslim legal fraternity must actively engage in litigation to ensure constitutional protections for waqf remain intact.

Organizations such as Muslim law boards, waqf councils, and human rights commissions should work collaboratively to challenge unjust policies and encroachments on waqf lands.

Filing Public Interest Litigations (PILs), gathering historical evidence to support waqf ownership claims, and engaging with eminent lawyers specialized in constitutional law will be crucial in securing waqf assets through judicial verdicts that reinforce minority rights.

Moreover, advocacy campaigns within the community should focus on mobilizing public opinion, creating a collective voice against governmental overreach into religious endowments. Peaceful protests, petitions, and media awareness initiatives can further strengthen efforts to safeguard waqf properties.

A Unified Effort for Waqf Preservation

The responsibility to protect waqf falls upon the collective strength of the Muslim community, requiring legal literacy, political engagement, and judicial activism. By ensuring that waqf trustees remain informed, policymakers remain accountable, and legal institutions remain fair, waqf can continue to serve its religious, educational, and social functions without disruption or unjust interference.

The coming years will define the future of waqf in India, making it imperative for Muslim scholars, activists, and legal professionals to work together. Safeguarding waqf is not just about preserving property—it is about preserving identity, faith, and communal welfare for generations to come.

6. Conclusion

The controversy surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, underscores the delicate balance between government oversight and religious autonomy. While transparency and accountability are essential for any institution, reforms must be carefully crafted to protect the fundamental rights of religious communities. Moving forward, constructive dialogue between lawmakers, religious leaders, and legal experts is necessary to ensure that waqf remains a pillar of Islamic heritage while adapting to modern governance standards. The way forward requires vigilance, engagement, and a commitment to preserving waqf institutions in a manner that is both just and respectful of religious freedoms.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY:

• The Waqf Act, 1995 & Amendments – Official government documents detailing the evolution of waqf laws in India.
• Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. Articles from publications such as The Hindu, Indian Express, and BBC News covering political reactions, protests, and legal perspectives on the act.
• "Significance of Waqf Boards Under Islamic Laws: An Analysis." International Journal of Legal Research and Literature – A scholarly paper analyzing the legal framework governing waqf administration in India.
• Sachar Committee Report (2006). Government of India – A report on the socioeconomic and educational status of Muslims in India, including insights into waqf properties and their management.