Mukesh Ambani’s Antilia on Waqf property? The full story of legal battle and controversy

Mukesh Ambani’s Antilia on Waqf property? The full story of legal battle and controversy

Mumbai, 7 April 2025: Mukesh Ambani’s Antilia, one of the most talked about and luxurious homes in the country, is once again in the headlines. This time the matter is not about its grandeur or price, but about the ownership of its land. After the Waqf (Amendment) Bill became law, the question is gaining momentum whether India’s richest industrialist may have to leave his luxurious abode worth Rs 15,000 crore? President Draupadi Murmu approved the bill on April 5, 2025, after which the debate over Waqf properties has intensified.

Connection of Waqf property and Antilia

Antilia, which is located on Altamount Road in Mumbai, is the residence of Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani. The huge building stands on a 4.5 lakh square feet plot, which Mukesh Ambani bought in 2002 for around Rs 21 crore. But there is a dispute hidden behind this purchase, which is still unresolved. It is claimed that this land was originally a Waqf property, which was donated for religious and social purposes. Under Islamic law, such property is called ‘Waqf’, which can neither be sold nor given for commercial use.
The root of the matter goes back to 1986, when a person named Karim Bhai Ibrahim donated this land to the Waqf Board. Its purpose was to build an orphanage and religious educational institution on it. But in 2002, this land was suddenly sold to Mukesh Ambani’s company. Three years after this deal, in 2005, the Maharashtra Waqf Board approached the court calling it illegal. The board said that no one had the right to sell the Waqf property, as it is considered ‘property of Allah’.
Legal battle and circle of questions
This matter reached the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, where questions were raised on this deal. The then Waqf Board chairman and the then CEO were also embroiled in this controversy. The board claimed that the land was sold without proper permission, which is a violation of Waqf rules. On the other hand, those who legitimize this sale say that the deal was done with the approval of the Charity Commissioner, which was possible under the Bombay Public Trust Act. But the Waqf Board is not ready to accept this and has been terming it illegal.

Economic analyst and waqf matters expert Rashid Ahmed says, “This is not just a question of land, but a matter of emotions and law. The purpose of waqf property is social welfare, not to create private property. This matter has also affected the trust among the people.” This case has been pending in the Bombay High Court for a long time, and no final decision has come till April 2025.

Effect of Waqf Amendment Bill

After the implementation of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, this dispute has taken a new turn. The purpose of this law is to bring transparency in the management of waqf properties and prevent misuse. Under the new rules, before declaring any property as Waqf, it will be investigated, and if any government land is wrongly registered in the name of Waqf, it can be taken back. Apart from this, changes have also been made like including non-Muslim members in the Waqf Board and organizing records through technology.

Some experts believe that this law can help resolve old disputes. Lawyer and property law expert Sanjay Mehta says, “If the court proves that the land of Antilia was Waqf property and its sale was illegal, then the Ambani family may have to vacate it. But this will not be so easy, because the matter is decades old and is related to many legal aspects.”

What do people say?

This issue has sparked debate from social media to common people. While some people consider it an example of misuse of Waqf property, some say that this deal was done legally. A local resident Mohammad Ali says, “If this land was really for orphans, then how did such a big house come up on it? This is a question of our faith.” On the other hand, some people are calling it an old matter and advising to move on.

What next?

For now, the future of Antilia depends on the court’s decision. If the decision goes in favor of the Waqf Board, it will be a big setback for Mukesh Ambani. But if the sale is considered valid, then this dispute can end forever. There may also be a demand for re-investigation of this matter under the new Waqf law, which can make it more complicated.

For Mukesh Ambani, whose wealth is in billions, this loss may not be big financially, but it can affect his reputation and emotional attachment. The question is, is it just a matter of time, or will law and history give a new turn to this story? Everyone is waiting for the answer.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes. Contact an expert for legal advice.

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