Waqf (Amendment) Bill introduced in Lok Sabha

New Delhi: Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 in the Lok Sabha amid strong opposition protests. The bill, aimed at amending the Waqf Act of 1995 to improve the management of Waqf properties in India, was tabled as the Opposition accused the Centre of "bulldozing the legislation" without allowing sufficient time for amendments.

An eight-hour discussion on the bill has been scheduled, with the possibility of an extension. The Union government had announced its introduction a day earlier, stating that it would be tabled shortly after the Question Hour.

Ahead of the parliamentary proceedings, Rijiju called it a "historic day" and emphasized that the bill serves the national interest, benefiting not just Muslims but the entire country, particularly women and children. "I want to make it very clear that this bill will be supported not only by millions of Muslims but by the entire country. We are committed to any initiative that benefits the nation, especially for the welfare of poor Muslims, women, and children. Those opposing the bill are doing so for political reasons," he stated.

The bill builds on previous legislative efforts, including the 2024 Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Waqf (Repeal) Bill, both introduced to improve the functioning of the Waqf Board and resolve ongoing management issues. The government remains optimistic that the proposed amendments will receive broad political support.

With IANS inputs