WAQF
Dubai changes visa rules in 2026, expands visa-on-arrival access and relaxes property visa criteria
Dubai has introduced several visa changes in 2026 that could affect Indian travellers, property owners, foreign professionals and long-term residents. The UAE has introduced new specialist visit visa categories and linked Dubai residence visa transactions with outstanding traffic fines. The proposed GCC unified tourist visa is also awaiting implementation.
CBI files FIR in $10 mn 'fraud' in Exim Bank involving UK-based company
The Central Bureau of Investigation has registered a case involving a USD 10 million fraud. This fraud is related to India Exim Bank and a UK-based company named Hanjer Biotech. Officials allege that the company diverted funds after requesting a loan for a recycling project. The loan was approved in 2012 but classified as a non-performing asset in 2014. The entire amount was reportedly siphoned off, leading to the investigation.
Waqf board irregularities: Court defers verdict in case against AAP leader Amanatullah Khan
A Delhi court has postponed the verdict in the CBI case involving AAP leader Amanatullah Khan. The case concerns alleged irregularities related to recruitment and leasing by the Delhi Waqf Board. Final arguments were completed on October 17 before the judge decided on a new date. Khan and several others have been named as accused in this matter. The new verdict date is set for November 28.
SC posts pleas challenging validity of Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 to January 21 next year
The Supreme Court has delayed hearings regarding the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. It has asked the involved parties to finalise their pleadings by December 31, 2026. The court intends to hear challenges that aim to invalidate specific provisions of the Waqf Act. Furthermore, the court had earlier stayed certain clauses to protect party interests while processing the case.
No demolition of Race Course Masjid till Waqf Board's representation is decided: Centre tells Delhi HC; No relief for offering namaz
The Centre assured the Delhi High Court that no demolition would occur at the Race Course Masjid. The court declined to allow the worshipper to offer namaz at the mosque, while addressing the case. The petitioner seeks protection for the mosque and access for worshippers amid reported restrictions. The matter will be further reviewed with a hearing scheduled for December 16.
ED attaches SP leader Azam Khan's Jauhar University property worth Rs 1,170 crore
The Enforcement Directorate has provisionally attached the assets of Mohammad Ali Jauhar University in Rampur. This action is taken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act based on allegations against Azam Khan and others. Allegations include the illegal acquisition of land and misappropriation of public funds for the university's construction. Previous investigations revealed significant discrepancies in the financial records of the associated Trust.
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"Minister's job to resolve matter": Asaduddin Owaisi demands Kiren Rijiju's immediate intervention in Race Course Masjid demolition order
Asaduddin Owaisi has raised concerns regarding the handling of the Race Course Masjid situation in New Delhi. He emphasised that the mosque holds gazetted Waqf status and should have legal protection. Owaisi urges Union Minister Kiren Rijiju to intervene and halt any potential demolition actions. The absence of a constituted Waqf Board in Delhi has contributed to administrative inaction.
Mirwaiz flags 6-day eviction notice to Race Course mosque
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq expressed concern regarding the eviction notice issued to the Race Course mosque in Delhi. The mosque has been a gazetted Waqf property since 1977 but may face demolition within six days. Asaduddin Owaisi called on the Union Minority Affairs Minister to intervene in this matter. The current absence of the Delhi Waqf Board raises significant issues regarding the defense of such properties.
Keralam government to seek Centre's clarity on junk food rules
Keralam seeks clarity from the central food safety authority on rules to identify and regulate foods high in fat, sugar and salt. The development comes as the state steps up efforts to reduce unhealthy eating habits among children. Clear standards are needed to determine the levels at which these ingredients become excessive. The state is implementing various initiative to promote safe and nutritious food at educational facilities.
Kerala government reconstitutes Waqf Board, appoints IUML leader Mayin Haji as chairman
The Kerala government has appointed M C Mayin Haji as the new chairman of the State Waqf Board, dissolving the previous board less than seven months after its formation. The reconstitution comes amid ongoing legal challenges and protests against the Centre's amendments to the Waqf law, while also highlighting a lack of representation for the A P Sunni faction.
J&K deputy chief minister Surinder Choudhary says chief election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar should resign
Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. He accused the government of meeting protestors with brute force and pointed to the Constitutional rights to freedom of speech and protest. Choudhary also raised concerns on youth unemployment and opposed the Waqf Board’s proposed standardised themes for Friday sermons.
Omar Abdullah and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq slam J&K Waqf Board move to 'standardise' Friday sermons
Omar Abdullah and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq have condemned the J&K Waqf Board's plan for uniform Friday sermon topics. Critics argue that this initiative represents undue interference in Muslim religious practices and violates freedom of expression. Mehbooba Mufti raised concerns about the implications for religious diversity and autonomy across India. Inam un Nabi asserted that mosques should not serve as platforms for controlled messaging.
From Reliance to Rajya Sabha: The Nathwanis’ political journey across party lines
Dhanraj Nathwani's recent nomination as a candidate for the Rajya Sabha has surprised many in the political arena. His father, Parimal Nathwani, has built relationships across political party lines over his career. Dhanraj has been active in political discussions and networks, influencing decisions within these circles. Parimal Nathwani's journey from businessman to politician illustrates significant shifts in political alliances.
Allahabad HC seeks UP govt's reply on petition against Saharanpur mosque demolition
The Allahabad High Court has stayed a six crore rupee fine imposed on a mosque management. This order came after the mosque's demolition in Saharanpur's collectorate premises. The court has asked the Uttar Pradesh government to file a counter affidavit within three weeks. The petition challenges the city magistrate's demolition order and the district judge's dismissal.
High Court seeks Delhi govt, Centre's stand on plea to constitute Delhi Waqf Board
The Delhi High Court has asked the Centre and city administration for their response. A petition seeks the constitution of the Delhi Waqf Board as per law. The last board's tenure ended in August 2023, with no fresh constitution. This prolonged absence risks waqf properties and deprives beneficiaries of safeguards. The court has given four weeks for the governments to file their replies.
Only registered 'qazis' can solemnise marriage under new nikahnama in Uttarakhand
The Uttarakhand Waqf Board is drafting a new nikahnama aligned with the Uniform Civil Code. This new contract will authorize only registered qazis or maulanas to solemnize marriages. It aims to fix accountability and prevent religious conversion solely for marriage purposes. The draft will remove columns for polygamy and mandate Aadhaar submissions for all parties.
Mob protests move to demolish party office constructed on Waqf land in Kolkata's Tollygunge area
In a tense showdown, a Kolkata Municipal Corporation team attempted to demolish an office of a political party, claiming it was unlawfully constructed on Waqf land. Local women stood their ground, protesting defiantly against the bulldozers, which led to one member of the KMC being assaulted. The situation was defused with the help of the Rapid Action Force, which monitored the area closely.
Supreme Court to hear plea against order upholding rejection of waqf suits for non-payment of court fees
The Supreme Court will hear a plea challenging a Gujarat High Court ruling. This ruling upheld the rejection of waqf suits for unpaid court fees. The high court relied on a previous decision stating waqf institutions must pay fees. The Ahmedabad Sunni Muslim Waqf Committee argues the Waqf Act exempts them from such payments. The apex court has issued a notice for a hearing within six weeks.
SC refuses urgent listing of plea against mandatory registration of waqfs under UMEED portal
The Supreme Court declined an urgent hearing regarding mandatory registration of waqfs under the UMEED portal. This portal requires digital inventory and geo-tagging of all Waqf properties. A lawyer raised concerns about registering waqf-by-users. The court had already reserved orders on key issues, including denotification of waqf properties. The Centre defended the Act, emphasizing its secular nature.
Waqf (Amendment) Act comes into force from April 8: Govt notification
India's Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, takes effect today, ushering in reforms for Waqf property management. Key changes include separating trusts from Waqf, modernizing processes with technology like a Central Portal, and restricting Waqf dedication to practicing Muslims. The Act also protects women's inheritance rights and addresses concerns over government properties declared as Waqf, sparking controversy among religious and political groups.
Waqf Amendment Bill: Kiren Rijiju tables controversial bill in Lok Sabha amid strong protests by Opposition
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju tabled the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha, which sparked strong opposition. The bill seeks to amend the Waqf Act of 1995 to improve administration and management of Waqf properties by introducing significant changes such as updating definitions, enhancing registration processes, and increasing the role of technology.
Waqf Bill 1995 vs 2024: From non-Muslim members to collector's role, here are key changes
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju presented the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha. The 2024 bill introduces significant changes, including a renamed act, stricter donor requirements, the removal of Waqf Board authority, new survey procedures, inclusion of non-Muslims in councils, and altered tribunal compositions. The bill proposes additional state and central government powers.
What is Waqf Bill? Here's an easy guide to understand the hotly-debated bill
Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha, focusing on improving the administration of Waqf properties through technology and transparency. The bill includes provisions for inclusivity, inheritance rights for women, and the application of the Limitation Act, 1963, to Waqf property claims.
Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 to be taken for passage in Lok Sabha on Wednesday; here's all you should know
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aiming to digitize and enhance transparency in managing Waqf properties, is set to be debated in Parliament. Despite opposition criticism, it is expected to gain support from NDA allies. Key reforms include updated definitions, technology integration, and increased representation in Waqf bodies, including non-Muslims and women.
58,929 waqf properties facing encroachment: Govt
Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju revealed that 58,929 waqf properties across India face encroachment, with Karnataka accounting for 869. Rijiju stated that complaints received by the ministry and Central Waqf Council are forwarded to respective state bodies for action, highlighting the legal provisions empowering waqf boards to address these issues and manage leases.
Waqf Act Amendments: Tighter control, more women and non-Muslims members, five key changes to Waqf law
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, introduces key reforms to increase transparency and government oversight in Waqf property management. It mandates property verification, clarifies property classifications, and removes provisions for oral declarations. The bill also enhances dispute resolution mechanisms and ensures women's representation on Waqf boards. These changes aim to address concerns about the arbitrary powers and misuse of Waqf properties, promoting better governance and accountability.
Waqf through the ages: How Rs 1-lakh crore property owner board acquires land and what the govt aims to change
The Waqf Board is reportedly the third-largest landholder in India, following the Railways and the Defence Department. Waqf boards control 8.7 lakh properties spanning 9.4 lakh acres across India, with an estimated value of Rs 1.2 lakh crore. There are 32 waqf boards, including two Shia waqf boards in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Control of the state Waqf boards lies in the hands of about 200 individuals.
Waqf Act amendment row: What is Waqf, how much land it holds, and what are the proposed amendments?
Waqf Act: The Modi government aimed to amend the 1995 Waqf Act to ensure accountability and transparency in Waqf boards and mandate the inclusion of women. The proposed changes, which faced opposition from some parties, were developed after consulting Muslim intellectuals and organizations. The amendments include the registration of properties and enhanced judicial scrutiny to verify Waqf assets.
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Chief Priest welcomes proposed Waqf Board Act amendments
The Indian government is considering amendments to the Waqf Board Act, focusing on inclusivity and property evaluation. The Chief Priest of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple welcomed the changes, while Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav criticized them. Proposed amendments may include mandatory property registration with district authorities and enhanced women's representation on the Waqf Board.
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