Legal framework of waqf in Sri Lanka: an analytical study

Abstract

Waqf (Wakf) or endowment as an institution being with religious intention to do good performances for the benefit of the beneficiaries. However, the effect of the Waqf legal framework has witnessed a deterioration since the end of the Ottoman Empire. Therefore, the Waqf institutions have gone through several reforms such as the ministry of Waqf or department of Waqf, which has been created independently with supporting the Muslim jurists. Presently, the legal framework of Waqf has enactment by the regulator of every country to manage and maintain the Waqf properties. This study explores the origin of the Waqf content in Islamic Law. Also, this paper discusses the application of the Waqf Act in Sri Lank which is related to the existing legal framework. This investigation gives an awareness of the existing Waqf legal framework of Sri Lanka. Also, it will identify the contemporary challenges and issues of the Waqf legal framework for the Muslim Charitable Trusts or Waqfs in Sri Lanka.