Waqf
Definition, Legal Basis, and Administration
A waqf is a permanent endowment of property by a Muslim individual for religious, pious, or charitable purposes. Once dedicated, the property cannot be alienated, gifted, or inherited. In India, waqf properties are administered under the Waqf Act, 1995 (and its predecessor, the Waqf Act, 1954), which established a statutory framework including a Central Waqf Council at the national level and State Waqf Boards in each state. The Waqf Act, 1995 originally required all members of State Waqf Boards to be Muslims, reflecting the principle that religious endowments should be administered within the community that created them.
- Waqf Act, 1995: Primary legislation governing waqf properties across India.
- Central Waqf Council: Apex advisory body at the national level.
- State Waqf Boards: Statutory bodies to supervise, administer, and control waqf institutions in each state.
- Original composition (1995 Act): All members of State Waqf Boards were required to be Muslim.
- Waqf properties constitute one of the largest categories of religious endowment land in India.
● Tracked since March 16, 2026 · last seen July 07, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes