New Delhi [India], April 2: The Lok Sabha on Wednesday took up for consideration the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, incorporating suggestions from the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) that reviewed the bill after its introduction in August last year. Alongside this, the House also considered the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024.
Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju moved both bills for passage, stating that the amendments aim to improve the administration and management of Waqf properties in India. The bill seeks to modernize Waqf boards by enhancing registration processes and leveraging technology for better record-keeping.
Congress leader KC Venugopal accused the government of rushing the bill without allowing sufficient time for opposition members to propose amendments. “You are bulldozing the legislation. There is no time for amendments,” he protested. However, Speaker Om Birla assured that equal consideration was given to both government and opposition amendments.
RSP MP NK Premachandran also raised objections regarding procedural lapses. In response, Home Minister Amit Shah defended the process, stating that all amendments incorporated into the bill had received Cabinet approval and were based on JPC recommendations. “There is no point of order,” Shah asserted.
Ahead of the debate, Rijiju reaffirmed the government’s stance, calling the bill a “historic” step in national interest. “Not only crores of Muslims but the whole country will support it. Those opposing it are doing so for political reasons,” he remarked.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, is a significant reform aimed at resolving longstanding challenges in the governance of Waqf properties, including allegations of mismanagement and encroachments. With strong opposition resistance, heated discussions are expected before the final vote.