his bill seeks to amend the Waqf Act, 1995, which governs the management of waqf properties-assets dedicated under Islamic law for religious, charitable, or pious purposes. Here's a breakdown of what I can tell you based on available information up to this point:

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 8, 2024, by Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju. Its stated aim is to improve the administration and management of waqf properties, addressing issues like transparency, efficiency, and accountability. After intense debate, it was referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) chaired by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal for further scrutiny. The JPC submitted its report on February 13, 2025, and the Union Cabinet approved a revised version of the bill on February 19, 2025, incorporating 14 amendments suggested by the committee. It's now slated to be tabled in the Lok Sabha on April 2, 2025, during the ongoing Budget Session.

• Restricted Waqf Creation: Only individuals practicing Islam for at least five years can declare a waqf, and they must own the property being dedicated.
• Increased Government Oversight: The District Collector (or a designated officer) gains authority to investigate and determine whether a property is waqf or government-owned, with their decision impacting property records.
• Inclusive Representation: State Waqf Boards and the Central Waqf Council must include at least two non-Muslim members and two women, a shift from the traditionally all-Muslim composition.
• Centralized Management: A portal and database for waqf property registration are proposed, alongside audits by government-appointed auditors.
• Legal Changes: The bill removes the "waqf by user" provision (recognizing waqf based on long-term use) and allows appeals against Waqf Tribunal decisions to be escalated to High Courts within 90 days.

The bill has sparked significant controversy. Supporters, including government figures like Rijiju, argue it empowers marginalized Muslim groups-women, children, and backward communities-by ensuring better governance and reducing mismanagement. Critics, including opposition parties and Muslim organizations like the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), claim it infringes on religious autonomy under Article 26 of the Constitution, centralizes control, and risks enabling government overreach or property disputes. Some have called it a "direct attack" on Muslim rights, while others see it as a step toward modernizing an outdated system.

As of today, March 31, 2025, the bill hasn't been passed into law yet. Its fate depends on the upcoming parliamentary session and negotiations between the BJP-led government and opposition leaders.