Waqfs in India: A Study of Administrative and Legislative Control

Waqf is a unique institution, invariably Muslim, though its fruits are enjoyed by all. Contrary to popular belief in India, Waqfs do not support only Muslim places of worship, but also support schools, colleges, libraries, hospitals, musafirkhanas and such other institutions for public good. In India the Waqfs have played and continue to play their humanitarian role. As such there are a central Waqf Board and state Waqf Boards, to oversee and co-ordinate their function. This first well-researched work traces the history and development of Waqfs and discusses in detail the laws and administration of Waqfs in India, various forms of Waqfs, and Waqfs property. Included in the study is the socio-legal aspects of family waqfs. The role of Mutawalli in the administration of Waqfs forms an important chapter. All the pre and post-Independence Waqf legislations and the Waqf Act 1954 have been fully examined by the legal expert which the author is. The book contains all the cases decided by Privy council, Supreme Court, High Courts and other legal institutes. In all, it is the complete, information-packed, documentary study of an important institution which should interest advocates, students of Islamic laws, sociology and common citizens all over the world.