♦ The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 officially came into force on 2025 April 8, following the issuance of a Gazette notification by the Central Government.

♦ The amended legislation brings substantial changes to the original Waqf Act.

♦ Key reforms include the separation of trusts from Waqf entities, the adoption of digital tools for property management, the creation of a centralised online portal to enhance transparency, and the restriction of Waqf property dedication to practicing Muslims only.

♦ The law also includes provisions to protect ‘Waqf by User’ properties—those historically used by the community—and recognises women’s rights in family Waqf arrangements.

♦ The amended law also expands the objectives of family Waqf to include financial support for widows, divorced women, and orphans.

♦ Section 3(r)(iv) allows Waqf funds to be used for their welfare and maintenance, aligning the legislation with Islamic principles of social justice and economic support.

♦ To improve gender representation, the Act mandates the inclusion of at least two Muslim women in every State Waqf Board (Section 14) and the Central Waqf Council (Section 9).