Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has launched a sharp attack on opposition parties over their dissent against the newly enacted Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, accusing them of trying to preserve a “monopoly” over Waqf properties for personal and political gain.
“The opposition wants to run a monopoly and misuse things. The Prime Minister and the BJP government will expose them. This Bill ends that monopoly and redirects Waqf properties for the public’s welfare,” Scindia said while addressing reporters.
A Bold Move by the Centre
Scindia’s remarks came shortly after President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to both the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025, following their passage in Parliament during the budget session.
The amended Waqf Bill aims to:
- Enhance transparency and accountability in Waqf property management
- Speed up survey and registration processes
- Empower relevant stakeholders and beneficiaries
- Modernise governance through scientific methods
PM Modi Blames “Appeasement Politics”
Backing the legislation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it a step toward restoring dignity for the marginalised and blamed Congress for indulging in “appeasement politics” over decades:
“Appeasement politics has hindered India’s growth. The debate around Waqf stems from this legacy. Congress and some extremist leaders made wealth from it—but what did the common Muslim get in return? They were left with neglect, illiteracy, and unemployment,” PM Modi said.
Nationwide Protests and Legal Battle
While the government insists the Bill aims to make better use of Waqf assets, opposition parties such as Congress, AIMIM, and AAP have approached the Supreme Court, challenging the law’s constitutionality and voicing concerns over religious autonomy and property rights.
Meanwhile, protests erupted in Bishnupur, Manipur, where members of the Muslim community took to the streets, demanding the Bill’s immediate repeal. Protesters held banners and accused the government of encroaching on religious rights.
Repealing the 1923 Law
Along with the amendment, the Mussalman Wakf Act of 1923 has been formally repealed, signifying a complete overhaul of century-old frameworks regulating Waqf affairs.