The Silent Powerhouses Behind India’s Muslim Philanthropy
In the heart of India’s socio-religious landscape lies an ancient yet often overlooked institution—the Waqf Board. With vast land holdings, historic mosques, and educational trusts under its control, the Waqf Board is one of the largest landowners in the country. Yet, its role remains shrouded in mystery, controversy, and untapped potential.
What is a Waqf?
A Waqf (plural: Awqaf) is an Islamic endowment of property or assets for religious, educational, or charitable purposes. Once dedicated, the property becomes inalienable—meaning it cannot be sold or inherited, remaining a perpetual trust for community welfare.
India’s Central Waqf Council and state-level Waqf Boards oversee thousands of such properties, including:
- Mosques, Dargahs, and Madrasas
- Graveyards and Muslim shrines
- Commercial real estate and agricultural land
The Scale of Waqf in India
- India has over 800,000 registered Waqf properties, making it one of the largest Waqf administrations globally.
- The total land under Waqf is estimated at 600,000 acres, with a potential value running into lakhs of crores.
- Major Waqf-owned landmarks include Delhi’s Jama Masjid, Hyderabad’s Mecca Masjid, and Ajmer’s Dargah Sharif.
Challenges & Controversies
Despite its vast resources, the Waqf system faces criticism:
- Mismanagement & Corruption – Allegations of illegal encroachments, lease scams, and political interference plague many state Waqf boards.
- Legal Battles – Disputes over Waqf properties, especially in prime urban areas, often lead to prolonged court cases.
- Underutilization of Assets – Many Waqf properties remain neglected or underdeveloped, failing to generate optimal revenue for community welfare.
Recent Developments & Reforms
- The Waqf Act Amendment Bill (2022) seeks greater transparency, digitization of records, and stricter penalties for illegal occupation.
- Prime Minister Modi’s emphasis on “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” has brought Waqf reforms into focus, with calls for better utilization of assets for education and healthcare.
- Some states have launched Waqf property verification drives to reclaim encroached land and boost revenue.
The Future of Waqf in India
With proper governance, Waqf properties could:
✔ Fund modern schools, hospitals, and skill centers for marginalized communities.
✔ Boost tourism through heritage restoration.
✔ Generate sustainable income through commercial leasing.
As India moves towards inclusive development, the revival of Waqf as a tool for social empowerment could be a game-changer—if transparency and efficiency prevail.
What’s Next?
- Will Waqf Boards evolve into engines of socio-economic growth?
- Can technology and reforms curb corruption in Waqf management?
- How will political and legal challenges shape the future of these Islamic endowments?
Stay tuned as we track the unfolding story of India’s Waqf legacy.
