Explained: The Major Changes Proposed In The Waqf Amendment Bill

Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju will table the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, a bill to amend the Waqf Act, 1995. This bill seeks to "effectively address issues" related to the powers and functioning of the State Waqf Boards, registration and survey of waqf properties and removal of encroachments. The bill is also aimed at providing justice to poor Muslims and Muslim women besides freeing Waqf properties from illegal occupation. Some changes to the present Act include ensuring the representation of Muslim women and non-Muslims in such bodies. The amended bill seeks to define the terms 'waqf' and omit provisions related to the 'waqf by user'. As per the bill, 'Waqf' would be defined as Waqf by any person who is a practising Muslim for at least 5 years and having ownership of such property and ensure the creation of Waqf-alal-aulad doesn't lead to the denial of women's inheritance rights. Watch this explainer to know more.