Waqf (Amendment) Bill Passed in Lok Sabha Amid Strong Opposition
The Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 with 288 votes in favour and 232 against after a heated and extended debate. The bill, introduced by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, seeks to make significant changes to the Waqf Act of 1995, with the stated objective of improving transparency, governance, and accountability in the administration of Waqf properties across India.
One of the key provisions of the bill is the integration of digital tools to manage the registration, auditing, and dispute resolution processes related to Waqf land. The bill also seeks to empower the local Collector with authority to investigate ownership disputes involving Waqf land and to determine whether the property belongs to the government, private individuals, or the Waqf Board.
A particularly contentious clause mandates the inclusion of two non-Muslim members in the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards. This provision was sharply criticized by several opposition parties and Muslim leaders, who argued that it amounts to interference in religious affairs and undermines the autonomy of religious institutions.
The opposition, which included the Congress, TMC, and AIMIM, accused the government of pushing an agenda to weaken minority institutions. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi tore up a copy of the bill on the floor of the House in protest, drawing comparisons with Mahatma Gandhi’s symbolic defiance of colonial laws. Critics claimed the bill is unconstitutional and warned it could lead to unnecessary conflict and confusion in the management of Waqf assets.
In defence of the bill, Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the amendments are focused purely on property management and do not interfere with any religious practices. He argued that the bill is necessary to prevent misuse and corruption within Waqf Boards and to ensure that the benefits of Waqf properties reach the intended beneficiaries, particularly women and children.
The government also claimed that the bill was drafted after extensive consultation and is meant to increase transparency and accountability in how Waqf properties are handled. Officials asserted that the new provisions would modernize outdated systems and reduce land disputes.
With the bill now passed in the Lok Sabha, it will move to the Rajya Sabha for further debate and approval. If passed there, it will officially become law and bring sweeping changes to how Waqf properties are managed in India.
