Centre Holds Off on Waqf Law Changes

• Jun 2, 2025

Centre Assures Supreme Court it Will Pause Key Provisions of Waqf Act Including Removal of Waqf by User

New Delhi, April 17, 2025 — The central government has informed the Supreme Court that it will temporarily halt the implementation of certain key provisions of the Waqf Act, including the controversial removal of the 'waqf by user' clause.

This move comes amid ongoing hearings in the Supreme Court, where multiple petitions have challenged parts of the Waqf Act, particularly clauses that allow land to be declared as waqf based solely on long-term community use, even without legal documentation.

The government stated that no coercive action would be taken under the amended law during the period of review. The clause on 'waqf by user' has been a major point of contention, as it has been used in the past to claim ownership over land based on religious usage, sparking legal disputes and public concern over property rights.

Petitioners have argued that such provisions grant excessive power to Waqf Boards and infringe on constitutional rights related to property. The Centre’s assurance is seen as a temporary relief while the Supreme Court continues its review.

Legal experts say this pause allows time for deeper examination of the law and opens the door for possible reforms to ensure fairness and transparency in managing waqf properties.