The Waqf Amendment Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on April 3, 2025, with 288 votes in favor and 232 votes against. The bill was introduced by Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on April 2, 2025. The aim of the bill is to improve how Waqf properties are managed in India. It seeks to fix problems in the old laws, make the Waqf boards work better, and use technology to make the management of these properties more efficient and transparent.
Kiren Rijiju explained that the bill is not about religion but about managing properties. He said the law only focuses on Waqf properties and does not interfere with religious matters. The bill was reviewed and improved by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) before being tabled in the Lok Sabha.
In his speech, Rijiju responded to critics who argued that the bill was unconstitutional. He pointed out that Waqf laws have been in place for many years and have never been struck down by the courts. He also stressed that the government is not trying to interfere in religious matters and that the changes made to the law are necessary for better management of Waqf properties.
Rijiju also highlighted that the consultation process for the bill was one of the largest ever in India’s democratic history. Over 97 lakh petitions and memorandums were received from the public, and more than 280 delegations gave their views. Waqf boards from 25 states and Union Territories also provided their feedback on the bill.
During the debate, Rijiju defended the bill against accusations from the opposition that it would harm Muslims or go against the Constitution. He said, “If the bill was unconstitutional, why didn't the court strike it down?” He urged the opposition to be careful with their words, saying that terms like “unconstitutional” should not be used lightly.
The Waqf Amendment Bill, which seeks to amend the Waqf Act of 1995, focuses on improving the administration of Waqf properties in India. It aims to fix the issues in the old system, improve the registration process, and use technology to manage Waqf records more effectively. The bill will help ensure transparency and efficiency in the management of these properties.
In conclusion, the passing of this bill is seen as an important step in making the management of Waqf properties in India more transparent, efficient, and modern.
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