On Wednesday, the Lok Sabha considered the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, incorporating recommendations from the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) that reviewed the bill introduced in August 2024. Additionally, the House took up the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024 for discussion and passage. Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju moved both bills, highlighting their significance for the country.
Opposition Alleges Lack of Time for Amendments
During the debate, Congress leader KC Venugopal accused the government of rushing the bill without providing enough time to propose amendments. “You are bulldozing the legislation; we need time for amendments,” he asserted. Speaker Om Birla responded by assuring that he had fairly considered amendments from both the government and opposition members.
Amit Shah Defends Government’s Process
Raising further objections, RSP MP NK Premachandran questioned the procedural approach. However, Home Minister Amit Shah clarified that the Union Cabinet had already approved the amendments based on the JPC report, dismissing any procedural concerns. “There is no point of order,” he stated firmly.
Kiren Rijiju Calls the Bill ‘Historic’
Earlier, Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, calling it a crucial step for the country. Speaking to the media, he said, “Today is a historic day. The Waqf Amendment Bill is being introduced for the benefit of the entire nation, not just crores of Muslims. Those opposing it are doing so for political reasons.”
Key Objectives of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025
The bill seeks to modernize the management of waqf properties, strengthen the Waqf Boards’ efficiency, and improve record-keeping through technology by amending the Waqf Act, 1995. Following its introduction last year, the bill underwent review by the JPC, led by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, before reaching the Lok Sabha for final approval.