The North News
New Delhi, April 4
Rajya Sabha has passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, after more than 12 hours of intense debate between the government and the opposition. The bill was approved with 128 votes in favour and 95 against, after all amendments proposed by opposition parties were rejected. The Lok Sabha had already cleared the bill. The legislation seeks to reform the management of Waqf properties by improving transparency, strengthening coordination between Waqf Boards and local authorities, and ensuring representation from different Muslim sects. It also aims to enhance the economic well-being of Muslim women, particularly widows and divorcees.
Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, stating that it would benefit millions of poor Muslims and would not interfere with Waqf properties. He emphasized that the government is committed to the principle of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (inclusive development), the All India Radio reported.
BJP National President and Union Minister JP Nadda strongly defended the bill, rejecting claims that it sought to curb rights. He insisted that the Modi government was committed to democratic values and transparency, urging all parties to back the reforms.
According to The New Indian Express, Nadda emphasized that the bill aimed to modernize Waqf property management and bring it in line with global best practices. He dismissed allegations that it was divisive, accusing critics of trying to derail much-needed reforms.
Taking aim at the previous UPA government, Nadda criticized its inaction on issues like Triple Talaq, despite public pressure and Supreme Court recommendations. He argued that many Muslim-majority nations had already introduced transparent Waqf management systems, and India should do the same.
He also defended the government’s UMEED initiative, saying it would enhance efficiency and accountability in Waqf institutions. The opposition, however, remains strongly opposed, calling the bill unconstitutional and discriminatory.
The opposition, including the Congress and DMK, strongly opposed the Bill, calling it anti-secular and unconstitutional. Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge demanded its withdrawal, while AAP’s Sanjay Singh and TMC’s Mohammad Nadimul Haque argued it violated fundamental rights, the news outlet said.
During the debate, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman mocked DMK MP Tiruchi Siva over his pronunciation of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused the opposition of misleading the public.
BJP leaders defended the bill, with Sudhanshu Trivedi saying it aimed to uplift poor Muslims, while JD(S) leader HD Devegowda supported the move, citing mismanagement of Waqf properties. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut and SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav criticized the bill, calling it undemocratic.
