Waqf Bill Gets Approval from Parliament

The Waqf Bill has received approval from Parliament. After a marathon debate of more than 12 hours in the Rajya Sabha, it was passed on April 3. The bill was supported by 128 votes and opposed by 95 votes.

Opposition Proposed Amendments to the Bill

The opposition proposed several amendments to the bill, but they were rejected by the house. After being passed by both houses, the bill will be sent to the President for approval. Once approved, the bill will become law. The proceedings continued late into the night, similar to the Lok Sabha.

Minister Kiren Rijiju's Response in Rajya Sabha

While responding to the discussion on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha, Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasized that the Waqf Board is a statutory body and should remain secular. He also stated that the bill does not target Muslims, but instead, it is the opposition parties that are creating fear among them.

Rijiju Defends the Constitutionality of Waqf Boards

Rijiju questioned, "If Muslims are poor, who made them so?" He referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" (Together with all, development for all) as in line with the spirit of the Constitution. He affirmed that Waqf Boards are not unconstitutional.

Opposition's Silence and Empty Seats

Although the opposition was expected to strongly oppose the bill, the situation was different after the Lok Sabha passed it, with the government justifying the bill as beneficial for Muslims. During the Rajya Sabha debate, the opposition refrained from making noise or disruptions, and many opposition seats were visibly empty, while the treasury benches were filled. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also led the defense of the bill, intervening in several speeches, including addressing Congress MP Nasir Hussain's remarks on tribunals.

JP Nadda Criticizes Congress

BJP President and Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha, JP Nadda, criticized the Congress for making Muslim women second-class citizens during its tenure. He pointed out that countries like Egypt, Sudan, Bangladesh, and Syria had banned Triple Talaq years ago, but Congress did nothing during its time in power.

Rijiju Defends the Bill's Provisions

Rijiju clarified that the bill aims to empower Muslim women and protect the rights of the Muslim community. He stressed that the bill is not against Muslims but is aimed at uplifting them. He also addressed the opposition's propaganda against the bill.

The Bill's Focus on Poverty Alleviation

Rijiju explained that the bill is aimed at opening up opportunities for the development of poor and marginalized Muslims and their families, hence the bill's name "UMWIED" (Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development). He reiterated that the bill aligns with Prime Minister Modi's vision for a developed India, including the Muslim community.

Accusations Against Waqf Boards

Rijiju also accused Waqf Boards of acting arbitrarily and stated that in Delhi, the Waqf Board was claiming ownership of 123 properties under the Urban Development Ministry and Delhi Development Authority. He warned that Waqf might soon claim ownership of the Parliament building as well. He also cited examples from Kerala and Tamil Nadu.