The central government is preparing to launch a new and updated website for the registration of Waqf properties across the country. This initiative aims to modernize Waqf administration, reduce legal disputes, and improve overall efficiency in the management of these properties. The launch is expected sometime this week.
The upcoming portal will replace the existing Waqf Assets Management System of India (WAMSI). A key feature of the new portal will be a three-tier verification process, incorporating a "maker-checker-approver" mechanism to enhance data security and accuracy. Under this system, the mutawalli (caretaker) will initially enter property details, functioning as the 'maker'. A Waqf Board official will then review and validate these entries as the 'checker'. Finally, a designated government authority will act as the 'approver', ensuring full verification before the records are finalized.
According to sources in the minority affairs ministry, all properties currently registered on the WAMSI portal will need to be re-registered on the new Central Waqf Portal. This fresh registration process is designed to ensure that all data is up-to-date and accurately reflects the current status of Waqf properties. The ministry has stated that the Central Waqf Portal, developed under the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, will be a transformative digital platform, serving as a centralized repository for Waqf property records across India.
However, unregistered Waqf properties, including those categorized as 'Waqf by user', will not be included in the initial database of the new portal. These properties will need to complete the necessary registration formalities to be included in the portal.
In addition to the website launch, the central government is also planning deliberations with state governments regarding the rules governing Waqf properties. These consultations are crucial because state-level Waqf boards fall under the jurisdiction of state governments and include representation from these governments. Following these discussions and the Supreme Court's judgment on pleas seeking a stay on the Waqf Act, the central government may notify the rules for Waqf properties and the functioning of Waqf boards.
The move towards digitizing Waqf property registration is expected to bring greater transparency and efficiency to the management of these assets. In Maharashtra, for example, a new Waqf portal is expected to enable property registration to be completed in a single day, a significant improvement over the previous offline, time-consuming process. The digitization efforts are particularly important given that many Waqf properties remain unregistered, hindering their effective management and the potential benefits they could provide to the Muslim community.
