In a dramatic turn of events, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 was passed in the Lok Sabha early Thursday after an intense 12-hour debate that saw fiery clashes between the Centre and Opposition. The bill was approved with 288 MPs voting in favour and 232 against.

Opposition vs Government

Tempers flared during the debate, with Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi tearing a copy of the bill in protest. He slammed it as “unconstitutional” and “anti-Muslim”, accusing the BJP of stoking religious tensions. “This Bill is meant to divide people in the name of temples and mosques,” he said.

Countering the allegations, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, saying it brings much-needed reform to Waqf property management. “India is the safest country for minorities. Crores of poor Muslims will thank PM Modi for this step,” he stated.

What Does the Bill Say?

Introduced in August 2024, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill proposes 40 key changes to the Waqf Act of 1995 to tighten governance and transparency.

Key features:

  • Mandatory registration of Waqf properties with district collectors to ensure correct valuation.

  • All Waqf board members to be government-nominated instead of elected.

  • Inclusion of Muslim women and non-Muslims in the Waqf boards for broader representation.

  • Aimed at curbing mismanagement and making the boards more accountable.

    • The bill now heads to the Rajya Sabha, where a fierce debate is expected to resume.

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