Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in India to reconstitute its Waqf Board under the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, introducing a new 10-member body chaired by Sanwar Patel.
The board includes two Hindu members, Manoj Malpani and Animesh Bhargava, marking the first such appointments under the amended law that permits non-Muslims to serve on state Waqf Boards.
The state government says the move is in line with the new legislation aimed at improving the administration of Wakf properties, while the amendment has also sparked debate among sections of the Muslim community and opposition leaders over representation and governance.
First Board Under Amended Law
The newly constituted board consists of 10 members, with Sanwar Patel appointed as its chairperson. Alongside Muslim members, Manoj Malpani and Animesh Bhargava have been inducted as the first non-Muslim members of a state Waqf Board under the amended law.
According to the state government, the reconstitution follows the provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which seeks to restructure the management of Waqf properties and expand the composition of state boards. Officials have said the appointments are intended to strengthen transparency and administrative oversight in the management of Wakf assets.
Why the Move Matters
The reconstitution comes after the implementation of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which introduced significant changes to the governance framework of Waqf properties across India.
Among its key provisions is the inclusion of non-Muslim members on state Waqf Boards, a departure from the earlier structure. While supporters argue the reforms could improve accountability and efficiency in property management, critics have raised concerns over community representation and the potential impact on the autonomy of Wakf institutions.
Madhya Pradesh is the first state to operationalise these provisions by forming a new board under the amended law.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Reforms to public institutions often bring opportunities as well as concerns, making transparency and trust essential. As changes to Waqf governance are rolled out, it will be important for authorities to engage with all stakeholders, address genuine apprehensions, and ensure that decisions uphold both constitutional values and effective administration.
Constructive dialogue, rather than polarisation, can help strengthen confidence in institutions and promote inclusive governance. Do you think reforms like these can balance accountability with community representation? Share your views respectfully in the comments.
