February 28, 2025 - The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the proposed amendments to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 with 14 changes recommended by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). The Bill proposes significant reforms for the management, operation and supervision of Waqf properties.

The approval was given in the Cabinet meeting held on February 19. The government may table it in Parliament during the second phase of its Budget Session from March 10 to April 4.

The Bill was referred to a JPC, headed by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, in August 2024 after it was tabled in the Lok Sabha by Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju. During the JPC meeting on January 27, 44 amendments were discussed, with 14 amendments from NDA MPs being approved. On February 13, the JPC presented its report in Parliament in the face of protests from the Opposition which claimed that their dissent notes were not incorporated in the final report.

The 14 approved changes are:

1. Inclusion of non-Muslim members in the board.
2. Women’s representation will also be included.
3. A mandatory verification process for claims on Waqf properties.
4. Increased participation of District Magistrates (DMs) in supervision.
5. Limiting powers of the board.
6. Digitisation of properties.
7. Implementation of a better audit system.
8. Prevention of illegal occupations.
9. The government will be able to nominate all members.
10. Increased powers of the tribunal.
11. Strict punishment for unauthorised transfer of properties.
12. Appointment of senior officials as CEOs.
13. Computerisation of records.
14. Changes in the board structure.