New Delhi [India], April 3: Delhi State Haj Committee Chairperson Kausar Jahan has hailed the passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha, calling it a “historic day” and a significant step for the welfare of the Muslim community.
Speaking to ANI, Jahan said,
“It is a historic day. The Waqf Amendment Bill has been passed in the Lok Sabha, and today it will be passed in the Rajya Sabha as well. It has proved to be a milestone under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi. Waqf properties will be managed and put to good use. It is a good step for the welfare of the ‘qaum’.”
Jahan Criticizes Sonia Gandhi Over Opposition to the Bill
Jahan also strongly criticized Congress leader Sonia Gandhi for opposing the bill. She questioned why Congress did not take similar steps during its years in power.
“You (Sonia Gandhi) were in power for so many years. Why didn’t you do anything then? Who stopped you? You are accusing others of vote bank politics, but when a positive step is being taken for the community’s betterment, instead of supporting it, you are opposing it. This shows your ideology.”
Sonia Gandhi’s Sharp Response to the Bill
Earlier, Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi launched a blistering attack on the BJP-led government, calling the Waqf Amendment Bill a “brazen assault” on the Constitution and accusing the BJP of keeping society in a state of permanent polarization.
“The Bill was bulldozed through. Our party’s position is clear. It is a brazen assault on the Constitution itself. It is part of the BJP’s deliberate strategy to keep our society in a state of permanent polarization,” Sonia Gandhi said.
Waqf Amendment Bill 2025: Key Highlights
- The Lok Sabha passed the bill after a heated debate, with INDIA bloc members fiercely opposing it while BJP and its allies strongly supported it.
- The House sat beyond midnight, with Speaker Om Birla announcing the division’s result: Ayes – 288, Noes – 232.
- The Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 seeks to amend the 1995 Act, aiming to improve the administration and management of waqf properties in India.
- The revised bill incorporates recommendations from the Joint Parliamentary Committee, which examined the initial version introduced in August 2024.
- It aims to increase transparency, enhance efficiency, improve the registration process, and integrate technology into waqf property management.
Next Step: Rajya Sabha Debate & Passage
With the Lok Sabha approval secured, the Rajya Sabha is set to discuss and vote on the bill today. If passed, it will mark a significant overhaul in the management of waqf properties across India.