Indian Parliament Passes Controversial Waqf Amendment Bill 2025
The Indian Parliament recently passed the contentious Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 after approval from both houses. The bill aims to bring changes to the structure and functioning of Waqf boards.
The Indian Parliament has passed the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, after it received approval from the Rajya Sabha early on Friday morning.
The Lok Sabha had approved the bill after a lengthy debate. In the Rajya Sabha, the bill received 128 votes in its favor and 95 against, following the rejection of all opposition amendments.
Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju explained that the bill includes amendments based on feedback from various stakeholders. The Waqf Board is a statutory body, and all government bodies should be secular, Rijiju emphasized.
According to the amendments, Waqf tribunals will be strengthened, a structured selection process will be maintained, and a fixed tenure will ensure efficient dispute resolution. The bill also proposes changes in mandatory contributions and auditing of Waqf institutions earning over ₹1 lakh.
The bill aims to empower practicing Muslims to dedicate their property to Waqf and ensures women receive their inheritance before Waqf declaration, with special provisions for widows, divorced women, and orphans. It also suggests that government properties claimed as Waqf be investigated by officers above the rank of collector.
The bill further proposes the inclusion of non-Muslim members in central and state Waqf boards for inclusivity.