Lok Sabha passes landmark Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 |
The Indian government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi claimed a historic step forward through passage of a Bill in lower house of Parliament to free Muslim Waqf properties and deliver justice. The Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 - UMEED (Unified Management, Empowerment, Efficiency & Development) Bill. It is claimed by the government and its political supporters to provide hope or ‘umeed’ in Urdu and Hindu languages for orphans, for widows, and for the needy! In the wee hours of 3rd April 2025, the lower house, Lok Sabha, passed the Bill. In a 12-hour long debate the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) of political parties led by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defended the Bill as beneficial for minorities. But the opposition strongly criticized it, calling it controversial and ‘anti-Muslim.’ Amendments to the Bill proposed by the Opposition were rejected through voice votes. It was passed by a division of votes, with 288 in favor and 232 against. The government emphasised the Bill will strengthen Waqf tribunals with a structured selection process and a fixed tenure and allow for better dispute resolution. Mandatory contribution of Waqf institutions to Waqf boards is reduced from 7 per cent to 5 per cent. Also, Waqf institutions with more than Rs 1 lakh in revenues will be audited by state-appointed auditors. A centralized portal will automate the management of Waqf properties for transparency and efficiency. The Bill reverts to pre-2013 rules by allowing practising Muslims (for at least five years) to dedicate their property to the Waqf. It also mandates that women receive their inheritance before any Waqf declaration, with special provisions for widows, divorced women, and orphans. The Bill calls for an officer above the rank of collector to investigate cases where government properties are claimed as Waqf. Also, a provision will allow appointment of non-Muslim members to central and state Waqf boards to promote inclusivity.
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