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The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, was presented before the Rajya Sabha on Thursday following its passage in the Lok Sabha. The bill, introduced by Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, has sparked intense debates, with opposition parties strongly criticizing several of its provisions.
Lok Sabha Passes Waqf Amendment Bill Amid Heated Debate
After an extensive 12-hour discussion, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, was passed in the Lok Sabha with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. The debate extended past midnight as opposition leaders, including Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi, accused the government of attempting to weaken the constitutional structure and marginalize minority communities.
“The bill aims to divide society and disenfranchise minorities. This is yet another attempt by the government to dilute constitutional values," Gogoi stated. However, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju countered these claims, asserting that the bill does not interfere with religious practices or mosque management.
Provisions and Controversies Surrounding the Bill
The bill introduces several significant amendments to the existing Waqf Act, 1995, which have sparked nationwide criticism. Some of the most debated provisions include:
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Allowing a non-Muslim to be appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Waqf board.
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Mandating that at least two non-Muslim members be appointed by state governments to their respective Waqf boards.
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Granting District Collectors the authority to determine whether a disputed property belongs to Waqf or the government.
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Eliminating the concept of “Waqf by user,” which previously allowed properties to be classified as Waqf through long-term religious use.
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Requiring all Waqf properties to be registered in a central database within six months of the law’s enforcement.
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Removing the provision that made tribunal decisions on Waqf disputes final.
These amendments have been met with strong resistance, with critics arguing that they undermine the autonomy of Waqf institutions and erode minority rights.
Rajya Sabha Session and Opposition Walkout
As the bill moved to the Rajya Sabha for discussion, opposition leaders continued their protests. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge condemned BJP MP Anurag Thakur’s accusations of land grabbing, calling them an attempt to distract from the core issues of the bill.
Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned following the passage of the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, amid an opposition walkout. The Waqf Amendment Bill will now be taken up for further deliberation in the upper house.
What’s Next?
With the bill now in the Rajya Sabha, the political battle is set to continue. If passed, the amendments will bring significant changes to the governance of Waqf properties across India. Supporters argue that these reforms will enhance transparency and accountability, while critics warn of potential encroachments on religious freedoms and property rights.
