The Parliament's recent approval of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill has drawn strong reactions across the political spectrum, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi describing it as a “watershed moment” in India’s journey towards transparency and reform.
Addressing the media after the bill’s passage, the Prime Minister stated that the legislation will ensure better accountability in the management of Waqf properties, which have long faced allegations of mismanagement and illegal encroachments. “This bill is about empowering the community, ensuring justice, and cleaning up a system that has been opaque for decades,” he said.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill aims to introduce stricter regulations, digitize property records, and streamline dispute resolution mechanisms. According to the government, the bill will prevent fraudulent claims and ensure that Waqf properties are used for the intended religious and charitable purposes.
While the ruling BJP has welcomed the bill as a necessary reform, opposition parties including the Congress, CPI(M), and Trinamool Congress have criticized its provisions. They argue that it grants excessive powers to Waqf Boards and could infringe upon the rights of other property holders. Several opposition leaders demanded that the bill be referred to a parliamentary select committee for wider consultation, which was denied by the government.
The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha earlier this week and subsequently cleared by the Rajya Sabha after a prolonged debate. It now awaits Presidential assent to become law.
Critics also pointed out that the bill could lead to legal complications regarding land ownership, particularly in areas where property titles are disputed. In response, Union Ministers assured that all stakeholders would have legal remedies and the bill would not override existing laws protecting individual property rights.
As the Waqf Bill moves closer to becoming law, it is expected to face judicial scrutiny, with some opposition leaders planning to challenge it in the Supreme Court.
