The Waqf Act, 1995

The Waqf Act, 1995 is an Indian law that provides for the maintenance and governance of waqfs, which are charitable endowments in Islamic law. The Act defines a waqf as the permanent dedication by a person of any property for any purpose recognized by Muslim law as pious, religious, or charitable. The Act establishes a Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards to oversee and regulate waqfs, and provides for the appointment of mutawallis (managers) to manage waqfs. The Act also regulates the sale, lease, or mortgage of waqf property and provides for penalties for the misuse of waqf property. Overall, the Waqf Act, 1995 seeks to ensure the proper administration and utilization of waqf property for the benefit of the Muslim community.