The Delhi High Court has issued a notice demanding detailed replies from the Centre and Delhi government on the statutory formation of the Delhi Waqf Board. Justice Anish Dayal gave both parties a four‑week deadline on September 8.

  • Justice Anish Dayal granted the Centre and Delhi government four weeks to respond on the Waqf Board formation.
  • The previous Board’s term ended in August 2023, yet a new Board remains unconstituted.
  • Waqf properties face heightened risk of encroachment and deterioration.

The Delhi High Court has sought the positions of the Union and the Delhi administration regarding the constitution of the Delhi Waqf Board under the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The move follows a petition by Mohd Shahid, arguing that the Board’s absence leaves valuable waqf assets vulnerable to illegal occupation and misuse.

Background and Current Status

The last Waqf Board’s tenure expired in August 2023, and despite the appointment of an administrator in January 2024, the statutory Board has not been formed. Petition counsel contended that this delay breaches the Parliament‑mandated statutory duty to establish a Board for every State and Union Territory.

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Court Order

On September 8, Justice Dayal ordered both the Centre and the Delhi government to file their replies within four weeks. The court emphasized that prolonged inaction would render a parliamentary enactment ineffective and constitute arbitrary executive conduct.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that prolonged vacancy of the Delhi Waqf Board not only threatens heritage properties but also undermines the confidence of the Muslim community in institutional safeguards, potentially escalating communal tensions in the capital.

"The absence of a statutory Waqf Board jeopardizes the protection of public charitable institutions and signals a serious lapse in governance," said legal scholar Dr. Ayesha Rahman.

Historical Background

The Waqf Act of 1995 provides a comprehensive framework for the management and protection of waqf properties across India. The 2025 amendment made it compulsory for each State and Union Territory to constitute a Waqf Board, ensuring community participation in overseeing religious and charitable assets.

Did You Know?: India’s waqf assets are estimated to be worth around ₹2.5 trillion, playing a crucial role in social development.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What happens if the governments fail to respond within the deadline?

Answer: The court may issue contempt proceedings or directly order the constitution of the Board.

Question 2: Which major waqf properties are currently at risk?

Answer: Several historic mosques, educational institutions, and graveyards in Delhi, protected under the Waqf Act, have reported management lapses.