The Ministry of Minority Affairs has shared a report revealing that Waqf properties in India include 16,713 movable assets and 8,72,328 immovable properties. Among all states, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Punjab have the highest number of Waqf properties.
What is Waqf?
Waqf refers to properties donated for religious and charitable purposes in Islam. These properties include mosques, madrasas, graveyards, Eidgahs, and dargahs. The concept of Waqf in India dates back to the Delhi Sultanate era, and today, the country has 32 Waqf Boards that manage these assets.
Which States Have the Most Waqf Properties?
According to a 2022 report by the Minority Affairs Ministry, the states with the highest number of Waqf properties are:
Uttar Pradesh – 2,14,707 properties
West Bengal – 80,480 properties
Tamil Nadu – 60,223 properties
Karnataka – 58,578 properties
Punjab – 58,608 properties
Other states with a significant number of Waqf properties include Jammu & Kashmir (32,506 properties), Assam (1,616 properties), and Delhi (1,047 properties).
Why is the Waqf Law Being Amended?
The Waqf Bill 2025 has been introduced in Parliament and, once passed, will bring changes to the 66-year-old Waqf laws. The amendments aim to address mismanagement, illegal land deals, and encroachments on Waqf properties.
Some key changes proposed in the bill include:
Better documentation and verification of Waqf properties.
Inclusion of non-Muslim members in Waqf Boards.
Strict action against illegal sales and encroachments.
Why is the Bill Facing Opposition?
Several opposition parties and Muslim organizations are protesting the Waqf Bill 2025, claiming it will dilute Waqf rights. However, the government says the bill is necessary to prevent misuse and illegal occupation of Waqf properties.
With the debate ongoing, all eyes are on the Parliament to see how the new Waqf law will shape the future of these properties in India.
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UP, Bengal, and Punjab Among Top 5 States with Highest Waqf Properties – The Vocal News
