𝐋𝐨𝐤 𝐒𝐚𝐛𝐡𝐚 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐖𝐚𝐪𝐟 (𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭) 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥, 2025 𝐀𝐦𝐢𝐝 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐬

Srinagar, April 3: The Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, early Thursday following a 12-hour debate. The bill was approved with 288 votes in favor and 232 against, despite strong objections from the opposition and the rejection of all proposed amendments.

Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, asserting that India remains the safest country for minorities. He dismissed claims that the legislation threatens minority rights and pointed out that persecuted religious minorities from neighboring countries often seek refuge in India. Rijiju emphasized that the bill aims to unify minorities, streamline dispute resolution in Waqf tribunals, and safeguard widows, divorcees, and orphans. He also noted support from the Christian community.

Home Minister Amit Shah refuted allegations that the bill interferes with religious affairs, stating that its purpose is to ensure transparency in the management of Waqf properties. He accused the opposition of misleading the public and defended the bill as a measure against misuse and corruption.

Opposition leaders, including Congress’s Gaurav Gogoi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, strongly opposed the bill. Gogoi argued that it undermines constitutional principles and marginalizes minorities, questioning why such amendments were not previously proposed. Yadav accused the ruling party of using the bill for political polarization, warning it could harm India’s secular reputation.

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi fiercely criticized the legislation, tearing up a copy in protest and likening his opposition to Mahatma Gandhi’s resistance against unjust laws. He called the bill unconstitutional and divisive.

Despite the pushback, Shah reiterated that the government will not interfere in Waqf’s religious functions but will ensure transparent management of its properties. He accused previous governments of enabling corruption and political appeasement through past amendments.

With Lok Sabha’s approval, the bill now moves to the Rajya Sabha for consideration before becoming law.