The Waqf (Amendment) Bill has officially received the President’s approval after passing both houses of Parliament. President Droupadi Murmu signed the bill into law today, despite heated debates and protests from opposition parties.
According to the government, the new law aims to address issues of favoritism, misuse, and encroachment on Waqf properties, which are assets held for religious or charitable purposes by Muslims.
The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government has argued that the bill is not anti-Muslim, but instead seeks to ensure transparency and accountability in managing these properties.
However, the bill has faced strong opposition from several political parties. Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi, and AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan have all filed separate petitions in the Supreme Court, challenging the law. They argue that the bill is discriminatory towards Muslims and violates their fundamental rights.
The All-India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has also opposed the bill, organizing protests across the country. The board claims the law spreads misinformation and undermines the rights of the Muslim community.
In defense of the bill, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad told media, “This law will bring much-needed transparency and accountability to Waqf boards. We are committed to ensuring that no mosque or graveyard will be affected.”
He said that the bill was meant to protect Muslim women and promote better management of Waqf properties.
The amendment was passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 votes in favor and 95 against, and in the Lok Sabha with 288 votes in favor and 232 opposed.
