Author: Divyanshu Krishna, Student of Law at Babu Banarasi Das University, Lucknow
INTRODUCTION
In Arabic the meaning of “Waqf” is “detention” or “to stop”. The concept of “Waqf” is rooted in Islamic laws. It refers to the permanent dedication (Donation) of property for religious or charitable purposes, such as building mosques, schools, hospitals, or other public institutions. The waqf property cannot be sold, gifted, inherited or encumbered. The waqf property is inalienable. Therefore, once a property is divested to the waqf, it vests in God and as per Islamic belief since God is ever lasting, so is the “waqf property”.
In India to regulate and protect Waqf properties, the first major law, the Waqf Act of 1954, laid the foundation for managing these properties. Time to time these laws have been updated to improve governance and prevent misuse. The Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 aims to increase transparency, strengthen management, and protect Waqf assets. These reforms follow global best practices.
