Parliament Clears Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025; Amit Shah Hails “End of Injustice”
In a significant legislative development, the Rajya Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 on Friday, marking the completion of its journey through both Houses of Parliament. Following its approval in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, the Bill now awaits Presidential assent to become law.
Amit Shah Calls It a “Historic Day”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed the passage of the Bill, declaring it a “historic day” that ends years of corruption and injustice in the management of Waqf properties.
“Today marks the end of an era of injustice and the beginning of transparency, accountability, and fairness in the handling of Waqf properties,” Shah stated on X (formerly Twitter).
He further thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, stating that the new law would directly benefit the poor, women, and children of the Muslim community by ensuring better management of Waqf properties.
Key Provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025
🔹 Strengthening Waqf Tribunals – The Bill empowers Waqf tribunals to handle disputes more effectively.
🔹 Increased Transparency – New mechanisms ensure better governance of Waqf institutions.
🔹 Reduced Contributions to Waqf Boards – Mandatory contributions from Waqf institutions have been lowered from 7% to 5%, reducing financial burden.
🔹 Mandatory Audits for Larger Institutions – Waqf institutions earning over ₹1 lakh annually must undergo state-sponsored audits to ensure transparency.
Rajya Sabha Votes After 12-Hour Debate
The Rajya Sabha debate on the Bill lasted over 12 hours, extending past midnight, before it was put to a vote.
📌 Final Vote Count:
✔ 128 MPs voted in favor
❌ 95 MPs opposed the Bill
Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announced the result, stating that final numbers might be updated later.
Lok Sabha and Opposition Reactions
On Thursday, the Lok Sabha had already approved the Bill after an intense debate. The Narendra Modi-led government strongly defended the amendment, arguing that it was necessary for better Waqf property management.
However, opposition parties criticized the Bill, calling it “unconstitutional” and an “attack on religious freedom”.
Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024 Also Passed
In addition to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, was also cleared in the Rajya Sabha through a voice vote.
What’s Next?
With both Houses of Parliament approving the Bill, it now moves to President Droupadi Murmu for her final assent before it becomes law.
Conclusion
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, is set to bring sweeping changes to the governance of Waqf properties, ensuring greater transparency and accountability. While the government celebrates it as a reformative step, opposition parties remain critical, setting the stage for continued debate on its impact.
