Lok Sabha Passes Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 Amid Heated Debate

The Lok Sabha has passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, after an intense 12-hour debate, with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. The bill introduces significant changes to the management and governance of waqf properties, sparking both support and strong opposition across political and religious lines.

Key Provisions of the Bill

1. Inclusion of Non-Muslim Members: The bill proposes the appointment of non-Muslim members to state and union territory waqf boards, aiming to enhance transparency and inclusivity in waqf administration.
2. Land Ownership Validation: To curb corruption and prevent disputes, waqf boards will now be required to validate land ownership through government authorities before making claims on any property.
3. Reduction in Mandatory Contributions: The bill reduces the mandatory contribution that waqf institutions must pay to waqf boards from 7% to 5%, easing financial burdens.
4. Mandatory Audits: Waqf institutions earning over ₹1 lakh annually will now be subjected to state-appointed audits to ensure accountability.

Government’s Justification

Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who introduced the bill, stated that the amendments aim to streamline waqf administration through technology-driven management systems. He emphasized that the changes would reduce misuse, improve record-keeping, and bring transparency in the handling of waqf properties.

Opposition and Criticism

However, opposition parties and various Muslim organizations have raised serious concerns:

• They argue that allowing non-Muslim members on waqf boards may dilute the autonomy of Muslim institutions.
• Critics fear that requiring government validation of waqf land could lead to the confiscation of historic religious properties, particularly those lacking modern legal documentation.
• Some leaders have labeled the bill as an attack on minority rights, questioning the government’s intent behind these sweeping changes.

Next Steps

The bill will now proceed to the Rajya Sabha for further debate and approval. If passed, it will bring a major transformation in waqf governance in India.

As the nation watches closely, the fate of this bill will shape the future of waqf property management and its broader implications for minority rights and religious institutions in India.