Waqf Amendment Act Comes Into Force; Centre Issues Gazette Notification

The Central Government enforced the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 on Tuesday after publishing a Gazette notification.

President Droupadi Murmu granted her assent to the Act on Sunday, two days after Parliament passed it.

The notification declared April 8, 2025, as the official date for the Act to come into force.

The amended law introduces major reforms to the Waqf Act, aiming to modernize Waqf property management and improve transparency.

The government separated trusts from Waqf entities, introduced digital tools, and launched a centralized online portal.

The new law restricts Waqf property dedications to practicing Muslims, protects historically used community properties, and recognizes women’s rights in family Waqfs.

The Rajya Sabha passed the Bill on April 4 after a 17-hour debate, while the Lok Sabha cleared it earlier in the week.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the law a ‘watershed moment’ for Waqf reform.

He said the Act ensures accountability and equitable representation for all Muslim communities in Waqf Boards.

Opposition parties, however, condemned the law. They accused the government of using it to push a divisive agenda.

Citizens and civil rights groups filed multiple Public Interest Litigations (PILs) in the Supreme Court, challenging the law’s constitutional validity.

In response, the Centre filed a caveat in the apex court, asking judges not to pass any orders without hearing the government’s side.

By implementing the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025, the government triggered strong political reactions and legal action that could shape the law’s future.

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