After vocal protests, Kerala to form Waqf Board under new law, Pg 6

Waqf Act Implementation & State Response

• Kerala to form new Waqf Board under the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, following vocal opposition and political protests.
• The outgoing Board s tenure expired in Dec 2023, and it is continuing under an extended term.

Political & Religious Opposition

• CPI(M)-led Kerala govt and Congress-led Opposition opposed the Bill, with Kerala Assembly passing a resolution against it.
• Muslim organisations criticised lack of consultation; protests held across the state.

Religious Representation Concerns

• The Pala Bishop criticised Kerala MPs for opposing the Bill, citing lack of representation for Christian institutions under similar frameworks.
• The new law affects election procedures and tenure norms of Waqf Boards nationwide.

Analysis & Way Forward

• Implementation of the amended law in Kerala indicates central authority s precedence in religious governance.
• Government must ensure community participation and inclusive reform to avoid alienation and preserve social harmony.

Mains Mock Question:

_"Discuss the implications of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 on minority rights and federal relations. Should religious boards be governed centrally?"_