The moment has come to overhaul the Wafq

• The Waqf, a significant yet underutilized institution, has the potential to transform the socio-economic conditions of the Muslim community.

• Despite its heritage and substantial landholdings, the Waqf has been hampered by inefficiencies, mismanagement, and lack of transparency.

• The Waqf, the third largest landowning entity in India, primarily serves the welfare of Muslims through the creation and maintenance of public goods such as schools, hospitals, libraries, and other charitable institutions.

The Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Bill, 2024

• The proposed UMEED Bill aims to address long-standing issues plaguing the Waqf, including the misuse of Waqf properties by mutawallis (custodians), and inefficiencies that prevent Waqf boards from maximizing the value of these assets.

• The current state of the Waqf reflects broader challenges faced by Muslims in India, including lack of accountability and transparency in the management of Waqf properties.

Impact of the Waqf System

• The outdated rental structure for Waqf-owned properties, with many rented out at rates fixed decades ago, is a significant issue.

• Allegations of illegal sales and squandering of Waqf assets have significantly eroded potential revenue that could have been used for community welfare.

• The potential income from Waqf properties could fund the establishment of world-class institutions that serve not only the Indian Muslim community but society at large.

The Final Waqf (Amendment) Bill

• The final bill must offer a visionary commitment towards the righteous space and scope of Waqf development leading to the overall upgrade of the Muslim community.

• The Bill seeks to create a more accountable and transparent system that can better serve the community.

• Profits generated from these properties should be reinvested into Muslim community welfare projects, in line with the original mandate of the Waqf establishment.