The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is set for discussion and a potential vote in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. Opposition parties, including the Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and CPI (M), have confirmed their participation in the debate but have made it clear that they will oppose the bill with full force. The bill, which aims to amend the Waqf Act of 1995, has already generated considerable controversy, with critics arguing that it is unconstitutional and discriminatory toward Muslims. The ruling BJP-led NDA, however, is confident that the bill will be passed, given its majority in the Lower House.
The Waqf Act of 1995 currently governs the management of waqf properties in India, which are properties donated for religious or charitable purposes under Islamic law. The proposed amendments seek to introduce stricter regulations to improve transparency and governance. However, opposition leaders argue that the bill goes beyond administrative reforms and could negatively impact the autonomy of waqf institutions.
One of the most contentious provisions in the bill is the modification of the "Waqf by User" rule, which has historically recognized properties as waqf based on their long-term communal use. The amendment removes this provision, potentially affecting many properties traditionally regarded as waqf. Additionally, the bill introduces new eligibility criteria for individuals who wish to declare waqf properties, requiring them to have practiced Islam for at least five years. Another significant change is the restructuring of Waqf Boards to include non-Muslim members, a move that has been met with strong resistance from several Muslim leaders and opposition parties.
The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), which was tasked with reviewing the bill, witnessed intense debates and disagreements. Reports indicate that the JPC reviewed 44 amendments proposed by opposition MPs but ultimately approved only 14, rejecting the rest. The bill was subsequently cleared by the Union Cabinet in February 2025 and is now set to be debated in Parliament.
AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi has been one of the most vocal critics of the bill, referring to it as the "Waqf barbaad bill" and arguing that it threatens religious freedoms. He questioned why non-Muslims should be allowed in waqf management when non-Hindus are not permitted in the Hindu Endowment Board. Other opposition leaders, including those from Congress and the Left, have echoed these concerns, stating that the bill undermines the historical and legal framework governing waqf properties.
On the other hand, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has dismissed the opposition's objections, accusing them of spreading misinformation. Rijiju emphasized that waqf rules have been in place since before India's independence and asserted that the government is not attempting to seize mosques or graveyards. He argued that the amendments are aimed at bringing more accountability to waqf management and preventing misuse of waqf properties.
The BJP has issued a three-line whip to its Lok Sabha MPs, ensuring their presence in the House for the next three days. The Congress has also issued a similar whip to its members, signaling the importance of the upcoming debate. With the NDA currently holding 293 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha, and the BJP alone having 240 MPs, the ruling coalition is in a strong position to pass the bill despite opposition protests.
Political analysts expect a heated debate in Parliament, with both sides presenting their arguments forcefully. While the government maintains that the bill is a necessary step to improve waqf property management, opposition parties view it as an infringement on religious rights. The outcome of this debate will have significant implications for religious governance in India and could shape future discussions on the rights of religious communities.
As the Lok Sabha gears up for this crucial session, all eyes will be on the proceedings to see how the debate unfolds and whether any last-minute compromises or changes are introduced to address the concerns of opposition leaders.
