The Government of India has taken a big step to make Waqf property management more transparent and helpful for the Muslim community. On June 6, 2025, Union Ministry for Ministry Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, launched the UMEED Portal, a digital platform that aims to improve how Waqf properties are managed and monitored across the country.
What is the UMEED Portal?
UMEED stands for Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development. It is a centralized online system developed by the Ministry of Minority Affairs. The portal is designed to make real-time uploading, verification and monitoring of Waqf properties possible.
Waqf properties are lands or buildings that are donated for religious or charitable purposes, especially for the welfare of the Muslim community.
Purpose of the Portal
The main goals of the UMEED portal are:
- Transparency: To show clearly how Waqf properties are being used.
- Accountability: To make sure those managing the properties are doing it properly.
- Public Participation: To involve common people in knowing and protecting Waqf assets.
- Protection of Rights: To safeguard the rights of the minority community, especially poor Muslims women and children.
Key Features of the Portal
- Digital Inventory: All Waqf properties will be listed online in a single database.
- Geo-Tagging: Each property will be linked to its exact location on a map using GPS.
- GIS Mapping: It will use special map technology to show how the land is spread out.
- Online Grievance System: People can file complaints or suggestions online for quick action.
- Public Action to Information: Anyone can view verified property records and reports.
- e-Governance Integration: The portal will be linked with other digital government systems to work smoothly.
Concern Over Waqf Act 2025
However, there is also some criticism. Petitioners in the Supreme Court have called the Waqf Act 2025 a form of ”creeping acquisition,” meaning they fear the government might take control of Waqf assets unfairly. They have asked the court to question whether the law is constitutional.