The government’s UMEED portal, launched to digitize and register all waqf properties across India has sparked a legal dilemma as the six month deadline for uploading property details nears. Despite widespread appeals, the Centre has Not granted a blanket extension, prompting concerns among waqf custodians and boards nationwide.
The Supreme Court of India recently refused pleas seeking a universal extension of the registration deadline. However the Court clarified that waqf property holders facing genuine difficulties such as technical glitches, incomplete old records or lack of digital literacy can Approach the Waqf Tribunal on a case by case basis to request more time. Experts say this is currently the Only legal avenue for securing an extension.
In Telangana and other states, waqf boards have raised concerns over server issues, complicated property records and the digital literacy gap among local custodians. Some state officials have urged the Centre to consider granting additional time, citing these challenges, but no official decision has been made yet.
AIMIM leader, highlighted the importance of compliance while emphasizing fairness: “The UMEED portal is a step toward transparency but waqf custodians must not be penalized for technical or procedural difficulties. Legal relief via tribunals is essential for protecting legitimate waqf properties.” He added that Many Muslim community members and leaders across the country have raised concerns about the tight deadline and the challenges faced by local waqf boards, urging authorities to ensure that genuine custodians are not disadvantaged.
The situation has created a tense environment for waqf management authorities. With the six-month deadline ending in early December, custodians are advised to Act quickly. Those facing difficulties are urged to file petitions with the Waqf Tribunal to seek extensions individually, ensuring their properties are correctly registered and not excluded from the national registry.
The UMEED portal also includes a welfare module for widows, divorced women, and orphans, allowing them to apply for maintenance support directly online. Experts warn that any delay or incomplete registration could affect beneficiaries under this scheme as well.
