Parliament Passes Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 After Debate

The Indian Parliament has passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, after a heated debate in the Rajya Sabha that lasted over 14 hours. The bill, which has been a subject of major political and social contention, secured approval with 128 votes in favor and 95 against. This legislative move has sparked widespread discussions, drawing reactions from across the political spectrum, religious communities, and legal experts.

What is the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025?

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, seeks to amend existing laws governing Waqf properties in India. Waqf refers to properties donated for religious or charitable purposes under Islamic law, and these are managed by Waqf boards at both central and state levels.

The government argues that the amendments are aimed at enhancing transparency, reducing disputes, and ensuring that Waqf properties are used efficiently for the welfare of the intended beneficiaries. However, opposition parties and several minority organizations believe that the bill is an attempt to dilute the autonomy of Waqf boards and interfere in Muslim religious affairs.

Key Provisions of the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025

The proposed amendments introduce significant changes to the existing Waqf laws. Some of the key provisions include:

1. Increased Government Oversight

• The bill grants the central government more authority over Waqf boards, reducing the autonomy of state Waqf boards.
• It empowers the government to intervene in cases of mismanagement and corruption in Waqf properties.

2. Property Dispute Resolution Mechanism

• The bill proposes the formation of a central tribunal to handle disputes related to Waqf properties.
• It also allows non-Muslims to challenge Waqf property claims, a provision that has drawn criticism from minority groups.

3. New Rules for Waqf Property Acquisition

• The government now has the authority to review and acquire certain Waqf properties in "public interest."
• This move is seen by critics as a way to take over land belonging to Waqf institutions.

4. Auditing and Financial Regulations

• Stricter financial regulations have been introduced to ensure greater accountability in the management of Waqf funds.
• All Waqf boards must submit annual reports and audits to the government.

5. Reduction in Powers of Waqf Boards

• State Waqf boards will now have limited authority in certain matters, particularly in land disputes.
• The bill mandates that Waqf board appointments be subject to central government approval.

Debate and Reactions in Parliament

Government's Justification

The ruling BJP government, led by Home Minister Amit Shah, defended the bill, stating that it corrects historical injustices and prevents misuse of Waqf properties. Shah argued that the amendments were necessary to ensure fair treatment for all religious groups and to bring transparency to the management of Waqf assets.

BJP President J.P. Nadda stated:
"The Congress and its allies have treated Muslim women as second-grade citizens by keeping them away from reform. This bill ensures fairness and justice for all communities."

Opposition's Criticism

The bill faced stiff resistance from the opposition, including the Congress, Trinamool Congress (TMC), DMK, and AIMIM. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi strongly opposed the bill, calling it a "weapon aimed at marginalizing Muslims and usurping their personal laws and property rights."

Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha, stated:
"This is an unconstitutional attack on the rights of minorities. We will fight against this divisive agenda."

DMK and other southern parties also voiced their discontent, with Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin assuring Muslims that his government would protect their rights.

Regional Parties and Allies React

The passage of the bill also saw shifting political alliances. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which had earlier opposed the bill, took a U-turn and allowed its MPs to vote freely, indicating a shift in its stance towards the ruling NDA. Nitish Kumar's JD(U) and Chandrababu Naidu's TDP also supported the bill after extensive negotiations with the BJP.

Legal and Religious Perspectives

Legal experts are divided on the implications of the bill. While some view it as a necessary reform to curb corruption and mismanagement in Waqf boards, others believe it infringes on the religious and constitutional rights of the Muslim community.

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) called the bill an "unconstitutional interference" and warned of legal challenges. Senior Congress leader and lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi suggested that the bill could be struck down by the judiciary, stating:
"The Supreme Court may declare this unconstitutional. This government is pushing an agenda under the guise of reform."

At the same time, some Christian and Sikh bodies welcomed the bill, arguing that it brings uniformity in the management of religious properties.

Public and Social Media Reactions

The Waqf Bill has ignited a firestorm on social media, with hashtags like #WaqfBillDebate and #SaveWaqfProperties trending across platforms.

• Congress supporters claim the bill is an attack on minority rights.
• BJP supporters argue that it promotes equality and curbs corruption.
• Neutral voices call for a deeper discussion on how religious institutions manage land and assets.

Former PM H.D. Deve Gowda distanced himself from both sides, saying:
"I do not endorse any ideology—only fairness in governance matters."

Meanwhile, actor Vijay’s political party in Tamil Nadu announced protests against the bill, reflecting the strong regional reactions it has evoked.

What Happens Next?

With the Rajya Sabha passing the bill, it now awaits the President's assent before becoming law. However, legal challenges are expected, and opposition parties may move the Supreme Court to challenge its constitutional validity.

The bill’s impact will unfold over time, particularly in states with significant Waqf properties like Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala. How the government enforces these new amendments will determine whether they bring about real reform or lead to further legal battles.

Conclusion

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, has become one of the most contentious pieces of legislation in recent times. While the government claims it is a step towards transparency and reform, the opposition and many in the Muslim community see it as an infringement on their rights. The next few weeks will be crucial as legal battles, public protests, and political debates continue to shape the future of this bill.

What do you think about the Waqf Amendment Bill? Is it a necessary reform, or does it pose a threat to minority rights? Share your views in the comments.