Lok Sabha clears Waqf Bill after intense debate
Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill early Thursday, April 2, after a 12-hour debate. The ruling NDA secured 288 votes, while 232 members opposed the bill.
The intense debate saw NDA leaders defending the bill as a step toward better governance of Waqf properties. The opposition, however, slammed it as “anti-Muslim.” Lok Sabha rejected all amendments proposed by opposition members through voice votes.
Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, asserting that India remains the safest place for minorities due to the secular nature of its majority. He criticized opposition leaders for calling the bill unconstitutional, arguing that courts would have struck it down if it were.
The bill now moves to Rajya Sabha, where an eight-hour debate has been scheduled, according to PTI.
The government revised the bill after reviewing recommendations from the Joint Parliamentary Committee. Originally introduced in August last year, the updated bill aims to strengthen the administration of Waqf properties. Lok Sabha also passed the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, during the session.
Rijiju attacked the opposition in his closing remarks, predicting that poor Muslims would appreciate the bill. “Crores of poor Muslims will thank PM Modi,” he declared. He dismissed opposition claims that the bill was “anti-Muslim” and accused critics of ignoring Home Minister Amit Shah’s detailed explanation.
The bill seeks to amend the 1995 Waqf Act to improve property management. It aims to resolve administrative inefficiencies, enhance the registration process, and integrate technology into Waqf records. The government argues these changes will increase transparency and efficiency in managing Waqf assets.
