In a politically charged session of the Lok Sabha, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju introduced the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 on April 2, 2025. The move comes amid intense opposition protests, with members raising slogans and challenging the government’s intentions behind the bill. The Waqf Amendment Bill has been at the center of controversy, with opposition parties arguing that it brings significant changes to the governance of Waqf properties across India.

The Introduction of the Waqf Amendment Bill

As soon as the session commenced, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla invited Union Minister Kiren Rijiju to present the Waqf Amendment Bill. The bill has already undergone detailed scrutiny in the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), which included consultations with 284 delegations from different stakeholders, including 25 state Waqf boards and union territories.

Addressing the House, Rijiju emphasized the extensive discussions that had taken place before the bill was finalized. "I want to congratulate members of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) from both Houses. In total, 284 delegations, 25 states, and union territory Waqf boards gave their submissions in the JPC," he stated.

Opposition Pushback and Sloganeering

The opposition benches erupted in protest as the bill was tabled, with members questioning the intent and implications of the amendment. Several opposition leaders argued that the bill could lead to increased government control over Waqf properties, potentially diluting the autonomy of Waqf boards.

Despite the uproar, the government defended the bill, stating that it aims to bring much-needed transparency and reforms in the administration of Waqf properties. Rijiju dismissed the criticism, saying that many individuals not directly involved in the process were being misled and provoked against the bill.

"Why are we being questioned for introducing positive reforms? Those uninvolved in the bill are being misled and provoked," Rijiju said, countering opposition claims that the amendment would be detrimental to Waqf institutions.

Key Highlights of Rijiju’s Speech in Lok Sabha

• Unprecedented Consultation Process: Rijiju claimed that the discussions around the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Joint Committee of both Houses were among the most extensive in India's parliamentary history.

• Broad Representation: A total of 284 delegations from various stakeholder communities shared their views on the bill.

• Waqf Boards Involvement: Waqf boards from 25 states and union territories actively participated in the discussions, offering recommendations.

What is the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025?

The Waqf Amendment Bill proposes several changes to the way Waqf properties are governed in India. While the exact provisions of the new amendments have not yet been made public in detail, the bill is expected to address issues related to:

• Transparency in the management of Waqf properties.

• Greater accountability of Waqf boards.

• Revisions in property ownership and leasing rules.

The government argues that these changes are necessary to eliminate corruption and streamline the management of Waqf properties, ensuring that funds and assets are utilized effectively for the benefit of the community. However, opposition parties claim that the bill may lead to an erosion of Waqf autonomy, giving the government greater control over religious endowments.

Why is the Opposition Protesting?

The opposition’s resistance to the Waqf Amendment Bill stems from concerns that the BJP-led government is attempting to interfere with Waqf properties, which are traditionally managed by the Muslim community.

Several opposition leaders have alleged that the bill could:

• Curtail the independence of Waqf boards.

• Allow government intervention in religious property management.

• Impact the leasing and transfer of Waqf-owned lands.

Some opposition parties have also raised concerns over whether the bill aligns with the secular principles of the Indian Constitution, arguing that it could set a precedent for government control over religious trusts and endowments.

What Happens Next?

With the bill now tabled, the next steps include:

1. Parliamentary Debate: The bill will be debated in the Lok Sabha, where opposition parties are expected to push for amendments or demand its withdrawal.

2. Committee Review (if referred): If opposition demands are strong, the bill may be sent for further scrutiny to a parliamentary panel.

3. Voting in Parliament: If the government pushes ahead, the bill will be put to a vote in both Houses of Parliament.

Given the BJP’s majority in the Lok Sabha, the bill is likely to pass unless faced with severe opposition pressure or intervention by allies. However, its fate in the Rajya Sabha remains uncertain, as opposition parties may attempt to block its passage.

Conclusion

The Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 has already sparked fierce political debates in India. While the government argues that it introduces necessary reforms to Waqf property management, the opposition views it as an attempt to control religious endowments.

With heated debates expected in the coming weeks, the passage of the bill will depend on how effectively the government navigates opposition resistance and whether any compromises are made in the final draft. The bill’s implications on Waqf governance and minority rights will be closely watched in the political and legal landscape of India.

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