India's Parliament Debates Controversial Waqf Amendment Bill Amidst Opposition Concerns (2025)

In 2025, India's parliament commenced discussions on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, a proposal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration aiming to reform the management of Muslim land endowments, known as waqfs.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

• Inclusion of Non-Muslims: The bill proposes appointing non-Muslim members to the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf boards, a move intended to promote diversity but viewed by critics as an intrusion into Muslim affairs.

• Government Oversight: Enhanced governmental authority to validate and oversee waqf properties, purportedly to combat corruption and mismanagement.

• Property Ownership Verification: Mandates waqf boards to seek approval from district-level officers to confirm ownership of properties, potentially impacting historic mosques and shrines lacking formal documentation.

Opposition and Criticisms:

The bill has faced significant opposition from various quarters:

• Political Opposition: Leaders from opposition parties have labeled the bill "unconstitutional," with AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi dramatically tearing a copy of the document in parliament to express dissent.

• Muslim Organizations: Groups such as the All India Muslim Personal Law Board argue that the bill is discriminatory and politically motivated, potentially leading to the confiscation of historic mosques and properties.

• Legal Concerns: Critics contend that the bill could undermine the autonomy of religious institutions and infringe upon minority rights, particularly affecting the Muslim community, which constitutes approximately 14% of India's population.

Government's Stance:

The government defends the bill as a necessary measure to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of waqf properties. Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who introduced the bill, asserts that the reforms aim to curb corruption and improve property management within waqf institutions.

Current Status:

Following a marathon 12-hour debate, the Lok Sabha passed the Waqf Amendment Bill. The bill now awaits consideration in the Rajya Sabha before it can become law.

Public Opinion:

A survey conducted by Local Circles revealed that 90% of over 47,000 respondents support amending the Waqf Act, with 96% advocating for waqf boards to register properties with district collectors, indicating public backing for increased transparency.

The debate over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill underscores the complexities of balancing governmental oversight with the autonomy of religious institutions, reflecting broader discussions about minority rights and secularism in India.