Waqf Amendment Bill Highlights | ‘Waqf harmed interest of women, Pasmanda Muslims,’ says PM Modi after Bill gets Parliament stamp
Waqf Amendment Bill in Rajya Sabha Today LIVE Updates: Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha took a dig at the BJP saying they are trying to snatch the right of minorities.
PM Modi reacts to Waqf Bill getting passed by the Parliament (PTI Photo/Arun Sharma)
Waqf Amendment Bill in Rajya Sabha Today LIVE Updates: After Lok Sabha, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha after a fiery 13-hour debate. Rajya Sabha was eventually adjourned for the day at 4:02 am on Friday, set to reconvene at 11 am the same day. PM Modi, hours after the Bill was passed, called it a “watershed moment” in the collective quest for socio-economic justice. The Waqf Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 members voting in favour and 95 opposing it. It was passed in the Lok Sabha early Thursday, with 288 members supporting it and 232 against it.
PM Modi lauds passing of Waqf Bill: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday morning reacted to Parliament clearing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the early hours of the day, extending his gratitude to all the MPs for their efforts in pushing the Bill forward. PM Modi posted on X, “The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill by both Houses of Parliament marks a watershed moment in our collective quest for socio-economic justice, transparency and inclusive growth. This will particularly help those who have long remained on the margins, thus being denied both voice and opportunity.”
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Mallikarjun Kharge attacks Centre over Waqf: Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition and Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge attacked the centra government over the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Upper House, saying that the government has taken a “negative stand.” “It is their interpretation, we kept our views on the bill in front of them (government). They have taken a negative stand and they are taking it forward,” Kharge told reporters. However, BJP dubbed the passing of the Bill as “historic” and pointed out that no one from the Gandhi family spoke during the debate in the Parliament, making their stance on the Bill unclear.
Live Updates
Apr 4, 2025 10:06 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Security beefed up in Jamia Millia Islamia
Security has been stepped up in sensitive areas of southeast Delhi like Jamia Nagar and educational institutes, including Jamia Millia Islamia, to ensure that law and order is not disturbed by anti-social elements over the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill, an official said on Friday.
Delhi Police along with paramilitary forces intensified security arrangements at multiple sensitive areas, he added.
"To maintain law and order at multiple sensitive areas, we have intensified night patrolling and additional deployment will be arranged," a senior police officer said. (PTI)
Apr 4, 2025 09:31 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Mayawati criticises 'hasty' passage of Waqf Bill
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Friday criticised the central government for "rushing" the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, saying that the legislation should have been introduced only after addressing people's concerns and clarifying doubts.
Her remarks came after the Rajya Sabha passed the Bill late Thursday night, a day after its approval in the Lok Sabha, where the opposition strongly opposed it.
"After listening to both the ruling party and the opposition in Parliament on the Waqf Amendment Bill, the conclusion is that if the central government had given the public more time to understand the Bill and addressed all their concerns before bringing it forward, it would have been better," Mayawati posted on X in Hindi.
The BSP leader further expressed disappointment over what she termed as the government's "haste" in passing the Bill.
"It is unfortunate that the government hurriedly introduced and passed this Bill, which is not appropriate. Now that it has been passed, if governments misuse it, then the BSP will stand firmly with the Muslim community. In other words, the party does not support this Bill," she added. (PTI)
Apr 4, 2025 08:51 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Bharat has won, says Goa CM on passing of Waqf Bill
Bharat has won, and the Constitution has prevailed, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said, hailing the passing of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Parliament.
The Parliament has approved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, as the Rajya Sabha gave its nod to the contentious legislation. It was passed in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, with 288 members supporting it and 232 against it.
In a post on 'X', Sawant on Thursday wrote, "Bharat has won! The Constitution of Bharat has prevailed! The Parliament of Bharat has passed the #wakfamendmentbill 2025." He said the legislation reinforces that the law of the land shall prevail.
"It ensures that the Waqf Board operates with greater transparency, accountability, inclusive representation, and efficient management," he said. (PTI)
Apr 4, 2025 08:29 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: PM Modi thanks MPs for their support over Waqf Bill
PM Narendra Modi thanked all the members of Parliament who participated in the parliamentary and committee discussions, voiced their perspectives and contributed to the strengthening of these legislations. He offered special thanks to the countless people who sent their valuable inputs to the Parliamentary committee.
He said, "Yet again, the importance of extensive debate and dialogue has been reaffirmed."
Apr 4, 2025 08:09 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: PM Modi reacts to passing of Waqf Bill
Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on social media platform X, "The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill by both Houses of Parliament marks a watershed moment in our collective quest for socio-economic justice, transparency and inclusive growth. This will particularly help those who have long remained on the margins, thus being denied both voice and opportunity."
He said, "Gratitude to all Members of Parliament who participated in the Parliamentary and Committee discussions, voiced their perspectives and contributed to the strengthening of these legislations. A special thanks also to the countless people who sent their valuable inputs to the Parliamentary committee. Yet again, the importance of extensive debate and dialogue has been reaffirmed."
Apr 4, 2025 07:27 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Opposition scaring Muslims with Waqf Bill, alleged Rijiju
Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday accused the Congress and other opposition parties of scaring the Muslim community with the Waqf Bill and asserted that the central government worked for all with the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'.
Participating in a discussion on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Rajya Sabha, Rijiju said the Waqf Board is a statutory body and, as such, like all government bodies, it should be secular.
He said the inclusion of a few non-Muslims on the Waqf Board would not alter the decisions of the body and instead provide value addition. (PTI)
Apr 4, 2025 06:56 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Rajya Sabha adjourned at 4 am
The Rajya Sabha was adjourned at 4 am on Friday after a 17-hour sitting. It will meet again later in the day at 11 am.
Before adjourning the proceedings, Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar said it was a "rare occasion" that the House is dispersing at 4.02 am to meet again at 11 am on the same day.
The House had assembled at 11 am on Thursday (April 3) and took up the scheduled Zero Hour and Question Hour.
At 1 pm on Thursday, it took up the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025. It was passed at around 2.30 pm on Friday.
The House then passed a statutory resolution moved by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the imposition of President's Rule in Manipur. (PTI)
Apr 4, 2025 04:07 AM IST
Why has PM not visited the manipur, Opposition hits out at govt; Rajya Sabha adjourned till 11 am today
As Rajya discussed the Statutory Resolution on President’s Rule in Manipur in the wee hours of Friday, the Opposition hit out at the government and asked as to why has Prime Minister Narendra Modi not visited the violence-hit state till date. Rajya Sabha adjourned till 11 am today.
Apr 4, 2025 02:42 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates | Waqf Amendment Bill passed in Rajya Sabha
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which aims to streamline the management of Waqf properties by further amending the existing law that was enacted in 1995, sailed through Parliament on Friday, with Rajya Sabha passing the legislation by 128-95 votes after a marathon debate of 12 hours. Rajya Sabha also passed the Mussalman Wakf (Repealing) Bill, 2025.
Apr 4, 2025 01:29 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates | Waqf Board is a statutory body, only Muslims cannot be included in it: Kiren Rijiju
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju says, "The Waqf Board is a statutory body and why should only Muslims be included in the statutory body? If there is a dispute between Hindus and Muslims, how will that dispute be resolved?
#watch | Delhi: In the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju says, "The Waqf Board is a statutory body and why should only Muslims be included in the statutory body? If there is a dispute between Hindus and Muslims, how will that dispute be resolved?... There can be disputes… pic.twitter.com/6xqQDl3yhD
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates | Voting underway for the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 in the Rajya Sabha
The voting for Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Rajya Sabha is underway.
Apr 4, 2025 01:20 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates | Won’t snatch Muslim rights, Bill ensures efficiency: BJP
Under Opposition attack, Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and other BJP MPs, including Leader of House in Rajya Sabha J P Nadda, defended the Waqf Amendment Bill saying it was neither unconstitutional nor against Muslims.
Tabling the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Rajya Sabha, Rijiju kicked off the discussion and rejected the Opposition’s allegation that the Bill was unconstitutional.
“It has been said that what we are doing is unconstitutional and will infringe upon the rights of Muslims. I would like to reject these claims. The management, creation of waqf properties will be done by Muslims, and beneficiaries will be Muslims. The waqf and mutawallis will be Muslims. It is created for religious and charitable purposes… there is no question of involvement of non-Muslims in these matters.”
Asserting that the provisions of the Bill are centred around ensuring “transparency, accountability, and efficiency”, Rijiju said, “We are not trying to hurt anybody’s religious sentiments.”
Listing all the provisions of the existing law, Nadda said it had become “draconian and overpowering”. This “overreaching”, he claimed, even challenged the spirit of the Constitution.
“Shouldn’t Waqf properties be managed properly? Shouldn’t Waqf Boards be accountable to Muslim women and children? Is that a bad argument? We should rise above vote bank politics,” he said.
On the issue of a donor being a practicing Muslim in the proposed law, Nadda said, “I don’t want to go into religious matters. But shouldn’t the donor be a genuine person? And one of the parameters of measuring that is the person should be a practising Muslim. We have not set up CCTV cameras. If the donor says he practices Islam and a Maulvi certifies it we will believe it.” — Deeptiman Tiwary , Vikas Pathak Report
Apr 3, 2025 09:51 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates | ‘You are trying to snatch the rights of minorities’: Mallikarjun Kharge debates Waqf Bill
Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha took a dig at the BJP saying they are trying to snatch the right of minorities. Kharge said, "They got 288 votes and 232 in opposition. This means there are gaps and deficiencies in this Bill. They are bulldozing it through. Waqf is about donation, and not to amass money. The one donating could be a Muslim, Hindu, Christian.
You have tried to snatch the rights of minorities. How much money you allotted to minorities, and how much you spent, if I present this, you will be surprised. 18, 274 crore they allocated in five year, 3,574 crore was unspent. This is their thinking for the poor. And they have kept reducing the budget.
You have brought allocation in financial years down to Rs 2608 from Rs 4700 crore, is this their welfare? You are slashing their budget. This reflects that you are not working towards the economic welfare of minorities. You stopped five schemes, Maulana Azad scheme, free coaching, support for students, scheme for providing education in madrasas, you stopped all these schemes and claim that you are working for women, Pasmanda and the poor. At least review these issues.
Their intentions are not right. They will collect Waqf properties, make land back and I don’t know whether their intent is to give it to big corporates. Rijiju has kept a buffet system for us (in parliament today), maybe they have a similar system for giving away (land)
MPs former judges, eminent persons appointed to the Waqf council must be Muslims, now those appointed to central Waqf council, must not be Muslims. In Tirupati trust, do you put any Muslims, or in Ram Mandir trust? I am a Hindu, even Dalits are not in the trust. In so many Mandirs, scheduled castes are not present (in trusts)
You are foraying into all places and meddling everywhere. These things sow seeds of discord. You cannot suppress Muslims, and you will have to resolve (the consequences). You withdraw this, do not make this a prestige issue. We have brought many amendments in the constitution too. This is not good for Muslims, this is against the constitution. This is not good for the society, and you should try to maintain peace and harmony, do not disturb it."
Nikhil Ganekar reports
Apr 3, 2025 09:15 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Muslims are not your enemy, your arrogance is, says SP MP
Ram Gopal Yadav, SP MP said, "All religions should be treated equally. There is a very large population of Muslims in India. If such a large population feels there is injustice, it is not good. Whatever you have done in the past, people are not happy with you. People do not have trust in you. You have not kept your promises.
Treasury speeches focused on land and property. It appears you didn’t remember any between 2014 and 2024. But after you sold every property belonging to the country, then you started looking for new properties. Don’t do this.
We are inching from democratic state to autocratic state. We doubt this Bill because in UP people cannot offer Namaz. In Sambhal when people were offering namaz on the day of Eid, policemen were roaming the streets with guns. So in such a situation even when you bring a good bill concerning minorities, people will not believe you.
So first, handle the UP government that it treats minorities well. This is thoughtless Bill. It will be so difficult to implement it. If you give all rights to the collector then it becomes a violation of Article 26. Do not misuse your majority. Muslims are not your enemy, your arrogance is."
Deeptiman Tiwary reports
Apr 3, 2025 08:31 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: There should be improvements in Hindu religion too, says Kapil Sibal
MP Kapil Sibal during his speech referred to land under religious trusts in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and said that there should be reforms within Hindu religion too. There should be improvements in Hindu religion too. If there is self acquired property in Hindu religion, they say I will give it to my son not my daughter. If you talk of women, then even in Hindu law, self acquired property should be given to women too, women too should have rights, you must give us a commitment in this House that you will bring a law that will protect the right of daughters to give self acquired properties.
This board is a statutory board, nobody was nominated. Most nominees were of the government, MPs, judges, civil servants. The Government can give directive to the board, tribunal members can be nominated by the government, why did you supersede it. Mutawali was making mistakes, he made deals. Because of the limitation provisions, the encroachments cannot be challenged after 11 years, you are supporting encroachments. You will not protect against encroachments, are you protecting encroachments?
You have said DMs have full power, what powers will he have, his decision is final. You are talking of Article 21 of the constitution, which decision of the DM will you challenge in a civil court. When he decides this is not a WAQF property you cannot challenge, you give finality to it. You have said the decisions of the tribunal is final, then what right does the civil court have?
There is a difference between WAQF and (Hindu) trust is that WAQF belongs to God, it cannot be sold. It can be donated for schools, for graveyards for the benefit of women, once given it cannot be taken back. Lastly, para 1134 of Babri Masjid judgement says that WAQF by user is an accepted mode of creating a WAQF, please honour the judgement that you extol the virtues of to the rest of the government.
There is a difference between WAQF and (Hindu) trust. It is that WAQF belongs to God, it cannot be sold. It can be donated for schools, for graveyards for the benefit of women, once given it cannot be taken back. Lastly, para 1134 of Babri Masjid judgement says that WAQF by user is an accepted mode of creating a WAQF, please honour the judgement that you extol the virtues of to the rest of the government.
Nirmala Sitharaman intervened and said, "Even in Tami Nadu and Andhra Pradesh,government appointed people monitor and run it. Tirumala board officer is appointed by the government of Andhra Pradesh, the entire system is under the government of Andhra Pradesh. In fact it has led to a lot of feelings that only our temples are controlled by the government, and has led to confusion among Hindu pilgrims too."
Apr 3, 2025 08:16 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Govt and BJP find it convenient to pitch minorities against each other, says IUML MP
Haris Beeran, IUML MP, delivered a fiery speech, saying that the government and the BJP find it convenient to pitch minorities against each other.
Apr 3, 2025 07:42 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: BJD urges members to exercise their conscience
In another development, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which earlier announced to oppose and vote against the contentious Bill urged its members to “exercise their conscience” during voting and chose not to issue any whip.
BJD MP Muzibulla Khan, who spoke on the bill on behalf of the party, said he stood to oppose the bill. “In 2014, when Modiji won, his slogan was Sabka Saath… Sabka Vikash… Sabka Viswas. Then why there is a sense of distrust in the minds of Muslims? Why there is a sense of partiality in their minds? It’s the responsibility of the government to erase the fear and concerns,” said Khan in the Rajya Sabha.
Khan, also questioned the need for proof of Islam in matters related to Waqf and demanded to strike down the provision.
The change of stance of the party in regard to vote came despite BJD president and former Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik had in September last year stated that there was “a sense of insecurity” among minorities and announced to oppose the bill in the Rajya Sabha.
While hitting the streets over amendments of the Waqf Act, 1995 in November last year, the regional party, with seven MPs in the Rajya Sabha, had alleged that the primary stakeholder—the Muslim community, was not consulted prior to the introduction of legislation.
Apr 3, 2025 07:12 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Deeply respect sentiments expressed by sections of minority communities, says Sasmit Patra
As debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill is ongoing in Rajya Sabha, BJD chief Sasmit Patra on X said: The Biju Janata Dal has always upheld the principles of secularism and inclusivity, ensuring the rights of all communities. We deeply respect the diverse sentiments expressed by different sections of the minority communities regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Our Party, having taken these views into careful consideration, has entrusted our Hon’ble Members in the Rajya Sabha with the responsibility of exercising their conscience in the best interest of justice, harmony and the rights of all communities, should the Bill come up for voting. There is no party whip.
Apr 3, 2025 06:47 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Focus on livelihood, jobs and education for Muslims, says JMM MP
Debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill is ongoing in Rajya Sabha and Dr Sarfaraz Ahmed, JMM took a jibe at the Centre saying they run bulldozers over properties and emphasis should be on livelihood, jobs and education for Muslims. Dr Ahmed said, "You have been in power for two decades and suddenly you have remembered Muslims. Welfare of Muslims will not happen through amendment in Waqf Board. Talk about livelihood, jobs and education for Muslims. You have run bulldozers for so long that no one believes you anymore.
Waqf does not take anyone's land unless that person is willing to give. And a part of the money earned through the property is spent on welfare. What about all the Waqf properties that have been encroached? What are you doing about that.
For wider consultation you took so.many suggestions. Did you incorporate any of them? This Bill should be sent back for reconsideration."
Deeptiman Tiwary reports
Apr 3, 2025 06:12 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Oppn attempting to divert, derail issue, says JP Nadda
JP Nadda, Union Minister, defending the Waqf (Amendment) Bill alleged the Opposition of attempting to divert and derail the issue. Nadda went on to target the Opposition saying it will be good if they pay heed to poverty people from Muslim community face. Nadda also supported the Bill saying women cannot be deprived of right to property.
Apr 3, 2025 05:48 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Muslim countries changed Waqf law, why not us, asks JP Nadda
JP Nadda, Leader of the Rajya Sabha alleged the Opposition of trying to bulldoze the Waqf Bill brought by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Centre. Nadda defended the Bill saying Muslim nations are making Waqf properties transparent and digital and asked why India cannot do it.
Apr 3, 2025 05:25 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: BJP wants to discriminate between Muslim and Hindu gods, says John Brittas
Intense debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill is ongoing in the Rajya Sabha. John Brittas, CPIM MP from Kerala questioned the Bill saying 13 non Muslims can be permitted as the members of the Waqf council. "These people want to remove Muslims from Waqf board," Brittas said. As he began the speech, Brittas said the BJP is attempting to segregate Hindu gods from Muslims.
Apr 3, 2025 05:01 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Intent behind the Bill is questionable, says Manoj Kumar Jha
In a fiery speech, Manoj Kumar Jha, RJD MP from Bihar questioned the content and intent behind the Bill referring to targeting of mosques and ongoing discussion on the Places of Worship Act. Jha said Hindus in the country are habitual of Muslims and Muslims are habitual of Hindus. "Please don't change it," Jha said.
Apr 3, 2025 04:25 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'Tiruchi Siva sings Hindi songs very well, recalls Sitharaman as DMK MP cites Rafi song' - Light moments in RS
Amid intense debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, the Rajya Sabha witnessed light moments filled with humorous exchanges between MPs.
While DMK MP Tiruchi Siva was speaking, Union Minister for Finance Nirmala Sitharaman rose from her seat and said he seemed to be pretending not to know the meaning of 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas.' Sitharaman pointed out that Siva actually sings Hindi songs very well.
Siva agreed with Sitharaman's point, saying he reads Hindi lyrics in English, then sings, and also asks for their meaning. Hinting at his musical abilities, Siva gave the example of the Rafi song 'Baharon Phool Barsaao.'
Siva didn't fail to take a stance on the ongoing language debate, saying he respects all languages and requested Sitharaman not to use it for political purposes, adding that otherwise, he would have to stop singing Hindi songs altogether. Ghanshyam Tiwari joined in with his share of humor, saying he recalled Siva singing 'Sau Saal Pehle, Mujhe Tujhse Pyaar Tha
Apr 3, 2025 04:02 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Bill diminishes Muslim representation in Central Waqf Council, says TMC MP Mohammad Nadimul Islam
Mohammad Nadimul Islam, TMC MP continues his address in Rajya Sabha. Islam says, "It creates a portal to register Waqf properties, but portals clash. What if a Waqf does not get registered under it for six months? Will it become illegal? I want a clarification from the minister.
It diminishes Muslim representation in the Central Waqf Council – out of 22, as many as 12 may be non-Muslim – and state Waqf Boards, in which seven out of 11 may be non-Muslim. In the Bill introduced in the Lok Sabha, they introduced a typo that any member who is a non-Muslim will be disqualified. We caught the error in the committee. So, it is necessary to send the Bill to a Parliamentary committee for scrutiny.
The Bill says it brings Muslim women into the Boards. But women are already there in the state waqf boards and central waqf council. So, what reservation are you giving? It is our party that has 39-% women MPs. You are shouting that you are giving reservation with only 14-%."
Apr 3, 2025 03:45 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Its a cultural vandalism, says TMC MP Mohammad Nadimul Islam
Mohammad Nadimul Islam, TMC MP raised his objection towards the Bill terming it as nothing but cultural vandalism and slammed the Centre saying they want excessive government control over Waqf. Islam said, "This Bill wants excessive government control over Waqf. It may be called UMMEED but it is being used to produce only helplessness." He went on to quote Mirza Ghalib and said: “Humko unse wafaa ki hai ummeed, jo nahin jaante wafaa kya hai (We expect loyalty from those who don’t understand its meaning).”
Further he asked whether Muslims have to prove their identity as per the Bill as it demands five years of being a practising Muslim to create a Waqf. Islam said, "The Bill destroys Waqf by user principle, as it demands documentation. It will capture Waqf properties that don’t have papers to show. This is nothing but cultural vandalism."
Vikas Pathak reports
Apr 3, 2025 03:28 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'A sad day...BJP's attitude towards Muslims exclusionary, marginalising,' Tiruchi Siva says
Tiruchi Siva, DMK MP from Tamil Nadu, took a dig at the BJP during his address in the Rajya Sabha. He stated that the party always pushes the slogan 'Sabke Sath Sabka Vikas.' However, he pointed out that their stance towards Muslims is one of exclusion, marginalisation, and dispossession. He also remarked : It's a sad day.
Apr 3, 2025 03:01 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Oppn vs Centre continues in Rajya Sabha
In a brief exchange between the Centre and opposition, Pramod Tiwari cited a rule that one member (Agrawal) cannot make an accusation against another (Naseer) without prior permission for the same. Amit Shah said that he did not accuse Naseer of anything; he just said some people, and not the member, raised slogans of Pakistan Zindabad during his swearing in. Naseer said that only one journalist made a claim that such a slogan had been raised, and that he had said on record that if some people did raise such a slogan, they should be arrested.
Apr 3, 2025 02:37 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Radha Mohan Das Agrawal joins Waqf debate
BJP MP Radha Mohan Das Agrawal said in the Rajya Sabha, "When Syed Nasser Husain was sworn in to the Rajya Sabha in Bengaluru, I was in Karnataka. His supporters chanted Pakistan Zindabad, and BJP workers who protested were thrown in jail."
"This is a revolutionary Bill that will help poor Muslims. We are Hindus, and history holds witness to our efforts to improve our society by banning Sati and child marriages, and permitting widow remarriage. But no efforts were made to undertake reforms in this Parliament that would help poor Muslims. Under Narendra Modi, this is the first time such things are being done. All his welfare schemes have reached Muslims," he said.
Apr 3, 2025 02:31 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'Trying to make us second-class citizens,' says Syed Naseer Hussain
Congress MP Syed Naseer Hussain said in Rajya Sabha, "They are playing politics and want riots in the country. They will ask for papers to register on the portal. If they don’t have them, their people will create a ruckus."
"Are you trying to make us second-grade citizens? They are creating confusion about 123 properties. They are either masjids, Qabristans or dargahs. I want to submit a list of those. When the British occupied Lutyens’ Delhi, these properties were handed over to the Waqf by them after construction of the area. These properties are with the Waqf. These were the ones that are being referred to by them in relation to 2013," he said.
Apr 3, 2025 02:24 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Syed Naseer Hussain vs Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha
Syed Naseer Hussain said in Parliament, "They say that under the existing Waqf Act, people can’t move court if they are aggrieved with the decision of the Tribunal. This is false. How are there so many pending cases in the High Court and Supreme Court if none could move court?"
To this, Amit Shah replied, "They did not keep a provision for a civil suit, which has a wide purview, in the court in the 2013 Act. They only have a provision for writ jurisdiction in the High Court, which has a very limited purview."
Apr 3, 2025 02:08 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: BJP trying to communally polarise voters, says Congress MP
Congress MP Syed Naseer Hussain said in the Rajya Sabha that the BJP failed to secure a majority in 2024, and is now attempting to polarise voters by bringing in the Waqf Bill.
"BJP lost the 2024 elections as it even failed to secure a majority on its own and that is why they have brought this bill to increase their vote bank. All they are doing is communal polarisation," he said.
Apr 3, 2025 01:54 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Waqf Bill to be renamed as 'UMEED'
Kiren Rijiju said in the Rajya Sabha, while tabling the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025, that the legislation will be renamed as the UMEED (Unified Waqf Management Empowerment Efficiency and Development) Bill.
Apr 3, 2025 01:42 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: BJP's 'concern' for Muslims would put Jinnah to shame, says Uddhav Thackeray
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday said the "concern" shown by the BJP and its allies during the discussion on the Waqf Amendment Bill would put Pakistan's founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah to shame.
His party opposed the BJP's fraudulent stand on the bill and its ploy to take away land and give it to its industrialist friends, he said at a press conference here, hours after the bill was passed by the Lok Sabha.
Thackeray, a former BJP ally, said the BJP has won a third term at the Centre and things are going well, yet it is raking up Hindu-Muslim issues.
He dared the saffron party to remove the green colour from its party flag if it disliked Muslims. (PTI)
Apr 3, 2025 01:22 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Kiren Rijiju commences Waqf debate in Upper House
Kiren Rijiju said in the Rajya Sabha, " As of today, there are 8.72 lakh Waqf properties...In 2006, if the Sachar committee had estimated the earnings from 4.9 lakh Waqf properties at Rs 12,000 crore, then you can imagine the income these properties must be generating now."
He further reiterated that the Bill will not interfere with people's religious freedom, and urged Congress and opposition parties to support the bill.
Apr 3, 2025 01:09 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Waqf Bill tabled in Rajya Sabha
Union Parliamentary Minister Kiren Rijiju tabled the Waqf Bill in Rajya Sabha on Thursday, after the bill was passed in the Lok Sabha with 288 votes in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
The discussion on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Rajya Sabha has commenced.
Apr 3, 2025 01:01 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: BJP pushed Waqf Bill to create polarisation, alleges CPIM
BJP was determined to push the Waqf (Amendment) Bill to create polarisation ahead of Bihar Assembly polls, CPI(M) leader Subhashini Ali said on Thursday.
Reacting to the Bill being passed in Lok Sabha, Ali, a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), questioned why the government was keen on pushing the Bill when more important legislations are needed.
"I mean, the farmers, MSP is waiting, so many others," Ali told PTI.
"But the BJP was determined to push through this Bill because I think they feel it will help them in polarisation just before the next round of elections, especially the Bihar election...The kind of speeches that were made in the Parliament were very, very divisive," she said. (PTI)
Apr 3, 2025 12:30 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Kharge says Anurag Thakur's remarks damaged his reputation
Raising the issue during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha, the Congress president said the BJP MP was compelled to withdraw his defamatory remarks made during the debate on the Waqf Bill in the Lower House.
"But the damage has been done," Kharge said.
He also sought an apology from Thakur as well as the Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha, J P Nadda, over the issue.
"Yesterday, Anurag Thakur hurled completely false and baseless charges at me in the Lok Sabha. When my colleagues challenged him, he was compelled to withdraw his defamatory remarks. But the damage has been done," Kharge said.
The Congress chief, however, said despite the withdrawal of the remarks, the same did the rounds on media and social media platforms.
"I am forced to stand up today and condemn Anurag Thakur's wild allegations. I expect an apology from the Leader of the House, which is the very least the ruling party can and must do," Kharge said. (PTI)
Apr 3, 2025 12:08 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Congress to raise US tariff issue in Parliament
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday said that his party will discuss the US administration's imposition of a 26 percent " reciprocal tariff" on India and release a detailed statement.
According to sources, the Congress party is set to raise the issue during Question Hour in Lok Sabha.
"It doesn't seem right to give a byte on this issue. Our party will release a detailed statement on it," Kharge said outside Parliament today.
"... The friendship between them (US President Trump and PM Modi) and the way they embrace each other and talk and now these tarriffs. It shows that America (Donald Trump) is a businessman. 'Aur wo humara customer phas gaya'. (And our customers are getting trapped." Congress MP Rajeev Shukla said that the tariffs are "extremely detrimental" to our trade and urged the government to raise the issue.
Apr 3, 2025 11:41 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Kharge's 'Jhukega Nahi' charge in Rajya Sabha
Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, in a Pushpa-esque response to Anurag Thakur's charge, said "Jhukega nahi" after the BJP MP accused him of "grabbing land" amid the Waqf Bill row.
Apr 3, 2025 11:21 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Kharge asks Anurag Thakur to apologize, resign
After Anurag Thakur's allegation against Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, claiming he grabbed land without permission, the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha asked Thakur to apologise in public for his statements. Kharge said that if Thakur can't bring even one paper to prove his allegations, he should apologize in the House and then render his resignation.
Apr 3, 2025 11:14 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Question Hour begins in Lok Sabha
The proceedings of Lok Sabha commenced at 11 am with Question Hour, as MPs posed questions for Union Minister Chirag Paswan. Opposition MPs continues sloganeering and chants during the first few minutes of the Question Hour.
Apr 3, 2025 11:01 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha resume proceedings for the day
Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha resumed proceedings for the day after a stormy session in the Lower House over the Waqf Amendment Bill on Wednesday. The discussion on Waqf Bill will be taken up in the Rajya Sabha today.
Apr 3, 2025 10:34 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'A brazen assault on Constitution,' says Sonia Gandhi
Congress MP in Rajya Sabha Sonia Gandhi said, "Waqf bill is brazen assault on Constitution; It's part of BJP's strategy to keep society in state of permanent polarisation."
Apr 3, 2025 10:11 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'A step towards upholding property rights of Munambam people'
The passage of the contentious Waqf Amendment Bill by the Lok Sabha was welcomed by BJP's Kerala unit president Rajeev Chandrasekhar who on Thursday termed it as a step towards upholding the right of property for all citizens, including those of Munambam.
In Munambam village in Ernakulam district, residents have alleged that the Waqf Board was unlawfully laying claim to their land and properties, despite the people having registered deeds and land tax payment receipts.
In a Facebook post, Chandrasekhar said that the Waqf system, nurtured for decades "by successive Congress governments driven by politics of appeasement", had trampled on constitutional rights and had denied individuals their rightful ownership of property.
"This amendment will restore equality, protect property rights, and provide long-overdue relief to affected people in different parts of the country.
"Under the leadership of PM Narendramodi ji, BJP govt remains committed to delivering on our promises and ensuring justice, fairness, and equal rights for all," he said in the post. (PTI)
Apr 3, 2025 08:18 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Samajwadi Party remains firmly against bill
Samajwadi Party leader Awadhesh Prasad on Thursday said that the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 is against the Constitution.
"We continuously opposed the bill, and the government's intention and purpose are not good. They want to grab the property of the Waqf board...The bill is against the constitution," Prasad told ANI.
Apr 3, 2025 02:51 AM IST
Lok Sabha ratifies presidential rule in Manipur
Folowing a midnight discussion, post 2 am, the Lok Sabha ratifies presidential rule in Manipur.
Apr 3, 2025 02:36 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates | Rahul Gandhi leaves from the Parliament as Waqf Amendment Bill is passed in the Lok Sabha
Following the clear passage to Waqf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha; Congress MP and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi leaves from the Parliament.
The house takes up presidential rule in Manipur. Opposition objects the govt’s attempts to take up the resolution. The Opposition says it’s a serious issue and cannot be taken up in the late hours. The speaker however asks Shashi Tharoor to speak on the resolution
Apr 3, 2025 02:09 AM IST
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill passed in Lok Sabha
The Lok Sabha has passed the Waqf Amendment Bill, receiving 288 votes in favour of the Bill, 232 votes against the Bill. The Amendment Bill was put to test on the floor of the House.
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: If it was unconstitutional, why didn't the court strike it down, Kiren Rijiju counters
Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju expressed gratitude to all leaders for sharing their views on the Waqf Amendment Bill. Addressing concerns raised by some members, Rijiju questioned the claims that the Bill was unconstitutional.
He said, "If it was unconstitutional, why didn't the court strike it down?... words like unconstitutional should not be used...the Bill is not against the Constitution, as the opposition claimed...We should not use the words ‘constitutional’ and ‘unconstitutional’ so lightly.”
#watch | #waqfamendmentbill | Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju says, "I want to thank all the leaders for keeping their views regarding the Bill... Some leaders are saying that the bill is unconstitutional, and I want to ask them how they… pic.twitter.com/IVI5hRfHlB
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'If he has a beard, will he be considered a practising Muslim, or should be clean-shaven,' asks Hyderabad MP Owaisi
Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi said in the Lok Sabha during the discussion of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill that the bill is a declaration of war against the largest minority in this country, by the Modi-led government.
Owaisi further stated that the bill goes against the constitutional provision of equality of all religions. He notes that non-Muslims will be a part of the governing body, while this is not the case when it comes to other religions.
“Today we heard the Home Minister saying the Board and the Council are separate from Islam. If that is true, then there is no need for this law. You should just make a statutory body. This bill is a grave violation of Article 26,” he added.
“Following the passing of this amendment, only ancient temples will be under protection, not the ancient mosques,” said Owaisi.
“Who will defend my interest...if I cannot depend on the State, Central Waqf Board,” the MP asks after pointing out how the changes proposed in the Bill will lead to non-Muslims occupying key positions on the Board.
On the provision entailing an individual practising Islam for five years possessing the right to declare a waqf, Owaisi jokingly asks how this will be determined “If he has a beard, will he be considered a practising Muslim, or should be clean-shaven?”
Apr 2, 2025 10:59 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'An attack on Constitution' says Congress leader Rahul Gandhi
Amid the ongoing debate over the Waqf Amendment Bill on Wednesday in Lok Sabha, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in his X account wrote that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill is a weapon aimed at marginalising Muslims and usurping their personal laws and property rights. "This attack on the Constitution by the RSS, BJP and their allies is aimed at Muslims today but sets a precedent to target other communities in the future."
He also added that the Congress party strongly opposes this legislation as it attacks the very idea of India and violates Article 25, the Right to Freedom of Religion.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill is a weapon aimed at marginalising Muslims and usurping their personal laws and property rights.
This attack on the Constitution by the RSS, BJP and their allies is aimed at Muslims today but sets a precedent to target other communities in the future.…
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'Just a numbers game...Muslims are being caught in the crossfire,' Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid opposes Waqf Bill
Attending the Lok Sabha session on bail, Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid opposed the Waqf Bill, declaring his firm stance against it.
Speaking in the Lower House, Rashid slams both the BJP and Congress for their treatment of Muslims, citing examples such as the Babri Masjid dispute, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and the dilution of Article 370.
He pointed out that while Congress introduced UAPA—now widely used against Muslims—it also played a role in weakening Article 370.
Addressing the Muslim community, Rashid questioned why they should be treated as a mere vote bank and constantly have to prove their loyalty. “This is just a numbers game, and Muslims are being caught in the crossfire,” he remarked. While firmly opposing the Waqf Bill, Rashid also urged the Muslim community to reflect on the functioning of the Waqf Board.
Apr 2, 2025 08:57 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Harsimrat Kaur Badal slams party’s shift in stance, calls Waqf Bill a property seizure move
Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal questioned in Lok Sabha on Wednesday the sudden change in the stance of a party whose politics, she claimed, has been rooted in Hindu-Muslim polarisation. She asserted that minorities no longer support them and pointed out that 27% of Waqf properties are located in Uttar Pradesh, suggesting a political motive behind their actions. She further listed Gurudwaras that have been demolished and alleged that the Waqf Bill is merely a means to seize the properties and wealth of the Muslim community.
Apr 2, 2025 08:16 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Kakinada MP Uday Srinivas advocates for transparency in Waqf property management
Kakinada MP Tangella Uday Srinivas of the Janasena Party addressed the Lok Sabha during discussions on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, emphasizing the significant amendments introduced during the Joint Parliamentary Committee hearings.
"One of the major challenges in Waqf property management has been the lack of transparency and accessibility in land records," he stated, highlighting how this has led to widespread encroachments and legal complexities.
He further asserted that the passage of this bill would pave the way for a more accountable, efficient, and transparent Waqf administration.
Apr 2, 2025 06:46 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'You couldn’t fulfill his vision, Narendra Modi did,' Amit Shah cites Lalu Yadav to defend Waqf Bill
Union Home Minister Amit Shah referenced RJD chief Lalu Yadav’s 2013 remarks on Waqf amendments, stating, “He had called for a strong law to prevent misuse of Waqf properties. While you couldn’t fulfill his vision, Narendra Modi did.” Shah stated that the new Bill will be applied retrospectively.
Defending the role of collectors in determining Waqf property status, he added, “This is the standard procedure for all land transactions. You must prove that the land being declared as Waqf property does not belong to the government.”
Apr 2, 2025 06:36 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Amit Shah accuses Congress of 'appeasement politics' over 2013 Waqf Bill
Union Home Minister Amit Shah clarified in the Lok Sabha that non-Muslim members may be appointed to the board and Parishad for administrative purposes. “Can a Hindu, Jain or Sikh charity commissioner not be from another religion? You will break the nation. This Bill was not necessary if they had not amended the Bill in 2013 and made it extreme.
Ahead of 2014 polls, for appeasement, they gave away prime lands of Lutyens Delhi as Waqf properties,” says Shah. He claims 400 acres of the Thiruchendur temple were handed over as Waqf property.
“They ask us to not keep note of these donations. This wealth belongs to poor Muslims and not the rich boards,” Shah added.
Apr 2, 2025 06:26 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Amit Shah defends Waqf (Amendment) Bill, slams Opposition for ‘misinformation’
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, speaking in the Lower House in support of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill stated, “Opposition MPs are spreading misinformation, either unknowingly or for political reasons. Waqf refers to a donation for religious charities in the name of Allah—an irrevocable charitable endowment. Donations can only be made from one’s own property, not government land.”
He further clarified, “There is no provision to appoint non-Muslim members to Waqf, nor do we intend to do so. There will be no interference in Muslim religious matters. The opposition is protesting this solely for vote bank appeasement.”
Apr 2, 2025 06:09 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Congress MP KC Venugopal challenges Anurag Thakur over allegations against Kharge, criticises BJP's Waqf Bill
Congress MP KC Venugopal in the Lower House challenged BJP MP Anurag Thakur to provide proof that Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge possesses any Waqf properties.
Speaking on the Waqf Bill, Venugopal accused the BJP of prioritising politics over crucial issues like job creation and Minimum Support Price (MSP) legislation. He pointed out that while the Vaishno Devi Act mandates a Hindu chairman or nominee for its board, and Devaswom Boards operate similarly, the Waqf Board is being treated differently. He questioned the BJP's alleged discrimination, highlighting its broader agenda.
Meanwhile, the Lok Sabha session has been extended until 8 PM.
Apr 2, 2025 06:00 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: LJP (Ram Vilas) supports, YSRCP and RJD oppose
LJP (Ram Vilas) leader Arun Bharti supported the Bill, while PV Midhun Reddy of YSRCP and Sudhakar Singh of RJD opposed it. Speaking in the Lower House on Wednesday, Arun Bharti stated, "The aim of the Bill is to establish transparency in the management of Waqf properties. Yet, the opposition is focusing on the religious angle, though there are economic, administrative, social, and legal aspects of it. But the opposition just focuses on the religious aspect."
Apr 2, 2025 05:55 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Rajya Sabha adjourned for the day
Rajya Sabha adjourned for the day after passage of Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, amid opposition walkout .
Apr 2, 2025 05:25 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Anurag Thakur takes dig at Congress: 'Will Waqf Board claim Anand Bhawan?'
BJP leader Anurag Thakur taking a dig at the Congress in the Lower House on Wednesday says, “The Waqf Board is about to claim Anand Bhawan (once the Nehrus’ residence in Allahabad) and National Herald. Will you give it?”
Apr 2, 2025 05:23 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'Didn't do anything for Muslims...anti-Hindu', Anurag Thakur slams Congress
BJP leader Anurag Thakur said that Lalu Prasad had once accused the Waqf Board of swallowing the land of the Patna Dak Bungalow. He said that while the Congress was “anti-Hindu”, it did not do anything for Muslims too, who had been provided basic services and welfare by the Narendra Modi government.
Apr 2, 2025 05:20 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: BJP's Anurag Thakur accuses Congress leaders of Waqf land embezzlement in Karnataka
BJP leader Anurag Thakur said in Lok Sabha on Wednesday that many Congress leaders in Karnataka had been accused of embezzling land in the name of Waqf, and that was the reason why the Congress did not want transparency.
Apr 2, 2025 05:18 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'This Bill is not against any religion...It is against corruption' says BJP leader Anurag Thakur
BJP leader Anurag Thakur said in Lok Sabha that many Christian and Muslim organisations had also supported the Bill. It was time to change the Waqf, he said, claiming that it had become a hub of corruption. “Khaata na bahee, jo Waqf kahe wahi sahi (No book of accounts, whatever the Waqf says is correct) was the way Congress ran the Waqf Boards,” Thakur said. This was India, not Pakistan or Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, he asserted, adding that Babasaheb’s constitution and not Mughaliya farman (Mughal decrees) would function here.
“We have changed the law so that poor Muslims can benefit,” he said, asking whether there was casteism and discrimination within the Muslim community too. The Bill, he added, would be the last nail in the coffin of the Congress politics of appeasement.
Thakur said that making a law against instant triple talaq was evidence of the Modi government’s commitment to justice for Muslim women. He added that this Bill was also an assault on the foundations of injustice.
“This Bill is not against any religion. It is against corruption and deceit… This Bill is not about Hindu vs Muslim; it is about law vs lawlessness, constitution vs corruption, and Bharat vs internal partition,” Thakur asserted.
He gave examples of Waqf management systems in multiple countries, suggesting that the Bill was a corrective that complied with international templates.
“Why are you anti-women, anti-Muslim, and anti-change? You will have to answer these questions,” Thakur said, obliquely referring to the Congress.
Apr 2, 2025 05:01 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: BJP MP Mahendra Bhatt calls for stronger law against infiltration
BJP MP Mahendra Bhatt in Rajya Sabha asserts that the proposed Bill will strengthen laws against infiltration in India, highlighting West Bengal as a key concern. He cites a case where a Bangladeshi immigrant allegedly secured an official position in the state using forged documents. Opposition MPs strongly protest his remarks.
Apr 2, 2025 04:51 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde slams UBT faction over Waqf Bill Opposition
Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde criticised the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) for opposing the inclusion of non-Muslim members in the Waqf board, questioning whether they would have taken such a stance if Balasaheb Thackeray were alive.
He accused them of harbouring an "allergy to Hindus" and wanting to protect the personal properties of Nizams and Mughals, likening their stance to supporting Aurangzeb.
Shinde further condemned their opposition to the revocation of Article 370 and the development of the Ram Mandir. Defending the Unified Waqf Management Bill, he asserted that it aims to foster minority progress, dismissing opposition claims that the government intends to seize Waqf properties. Instead, he suggested their real fear lies in the exposure of past mismanagement and scams.
Apr 2, 2025 04:37 PM IST
On Waqf Amendment Bill, chorus from Srinagar |‘India should not become another Myanmar…’
As the Waqf amendment bill was tabled in Parliament, political parties in the Valley put up a united front in opposing it.
While the ruling National Conference (NC) said its MPs will strongly oppose the bill, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) called it a “conspiracy against Muslims”.
Warning that India is going the Myanmar way, former chief minister and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti termed the bill a “deliberate” targeting of Muslims and urged the majority community to stand up against it.
“This is Gandhi ji’s country and it should run by the Constitution, not by the agenda of the BJP,” Mufti said. “If the people of the country want that India should not become another Myanmar or if they want that what happened to Kashmiri Pandits should not happen – for which we are sorry even today and for which the people of the country taunt us even today – they should stand up. If they watch in silence, nobody can stop this country from disintegration.”
Mufti termed the proposed amendment a conspiracy to disempower Muslims but hoped that the people of the country would stand against it. “I have no hope from the BJP. We are seeing for the last 10-12 years how Muslims are being lynched, their mosques bulldozed and their graveyards occupied,” she said. “The Hindus of this country have to come forward.” Read
Apr 2, 2025 04:27 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP condemn Bill, questions government’s intent
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant has expressed scepticism over the government's intent behind the proposed Bill, alleging a mismatch between words and actions. He condemned the inclusion of non-stakeholders in the JPC and questioned whether the party remains committed to Hindutva.
Sawant linked the move to upcoming Bihar elections rather than genuine concern for minorities, calling it "Saugat-e-Bill" after "Saugat-e-Modi" in Maharashtra.
He further argued that nominating the Waqf Board, rather than electing it democratically, would diminish Muslim representation, warning that similar actions could extend to Hindu temple boards, Christian, and Sikh trusts. He also alleged large-scale sales of Devasthan Board land.
Apr 2, 2025 04:19 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Waqf Bill debate | NDA vs India Bloc
Apr 2, 2025 03:55 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: TDP MP Krishna Prasad Tenetti backs amended Waqf Bill in Lok Sabha
Supporting the amended Waqf Bill in Lok Sabha on Wednesday, TDP MP Krishna Prasad Tenetti stressed the immense economic and social potential of Waqf properties, valued at Rs1.2 lakh crore and spanning 36.18 lakh acres. He criticised their mismanagement and underutilisation, asserting that reforms would empower minority communities, particularly women.
"Our party (TDP) supports the betterment of minority women through reforms in the Waqf Bill. We were the first to establish a special committee, and after extensive deliberations, the Bill now includes 14 amendments, three of which were proposed by TDP," he said.
All registered Waqf properties will remain valid even without a deed.
State disputes over Waqf properties will be resolved by an officer ranked higher than a collector.
The Waqf Tribunal can grant extensions for property registration in specific cases.
Apr 2, 2025 03:51 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'Religion and politics should not be mixed,' says DMK leader A Raja in Lok Sabha
DMK leader A Raja, speaking in the Lok Sabha during the debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, said, " Religion is different, and politics is something different." The two should not be mixed, he added.
Apr 2, 2025 03:37 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: TMC MP criticises proposed law, calls it polarising and arbitrary
Sreerampur MP Kalyan Banerjee on Wednesday alleged in Lok Sabha that the proposed legislation aims to polarise Hindu and Muslim communities. Highlighting a provision allowing individuals practising Islam for five years to declare a waqf, Banerjee argued that religious duties should not form the basis of legislation.
"One can fulfil their religious obligations at any stage of life, even at the time of death," he said.
Earlier, the Trinamool Congress MP had labelled the proposed law as "misconceived, irrational, and arbitrary." He also criticised the removal of Section 40, stating that it would render the legislation ineffective, likening it to a "toothless doll." The omitted provisions relate to claims over property.
Apr 2, 2025 02:49 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Waqf Bill exposes Centre's multiple failures
Participating in the debate, Samajwadi Party chief and MP Akhilesh Yadav took potshots at the BJP.
Yadav said the Waqf Bill is a veil on the government’s multiple failures. "They were talking about the many progressive bills they have brought. They had similarly come up with demonetisation after great preparation. Let's discuss that too. The failure is also on the front of rising prices, unemployment, and farmers’ income. Have Ganga and Yamuna been cleaned up? Have smart cities come up? Have they abandoned the villages they had adopted? This time this Waqf Bill is the veil on these failures," he said.
Apr 2, 2025 02:42 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'This country belongs to Muslim community as much as it to Hindus,' says BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad
Taking part in Waqf Bill debate, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said, "This country belongs to the Muslim community as much as it to the Hindus, there is no doubt in it. However, who will be ideals of the Muslim community? People who do business of votes will be ideals of Muslim community. If this is so, then it won't be acceptable to the country. We want to say it humbly that ideals of the Muslim community will be Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Dr APJ Kalam, Abdul Hamid, Ashfaqulla Khan, Raskhan, Kabir, Malik Muhammad Jayasi. When fast bowler Mohammad Shami takes a wicket, the entire nation erupts in joy. When Sania Mirza makes India proud in tennis, everyone celebrates it. We felt that 'saudagiri' of votes will be stopped, but it didn't."
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Apr 2, 2025 02:17 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: BJD to oppose the Waqf (Amendment) Bill
As the Parliament begins a debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Odisha's opposition party Biju Janata Dal on Wednesday said it will oppose the contentious legislation.
The party said it had made some suggestions to be incorporated into the Bill which were rejected. The BJD, which has seven members in the Rajya Sabha, will oppose the Bill, BJD's Rajya Sabha MP and national spokesperson Sasmit Patra told PTI. The regional party headed by former chief minister Naveen Patnaik, however, has no member in the Lok Sabha.
Stating that BJD Rajya Sabha member Muzibulla Khan will speak on behalf of the party in Parliament during the debate on the matter, Patra said the party is not satisfied with the Bill.
The Centre has amended certain points in the Bill after the JPC, he said.
The BJD leader said the Bill grants sweeping powers to the state government in determining the status of Waqf land, which could lead to undue interference. Patra also claimed that the absence of legal and institutional support for Waqf bodies exposes them to bureaucratic delays and mismanagement. PTI
Apr 2, 2025 01:44 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Waqf Bill to be renamed as UMEED, says Kiren Rijju
Union Minister Kiren Rijju Wednesday announced in Lok Sabha that the Waqf Bill will be renamed as Unified Waqf Management Empowerment, Efficiency and Development (UMEED) Bill.
Apr 2, 2025 01:23 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Cong leader slams Union Minister Kiren Rijju over misleading Parliament
Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi slammed the Union Minister Kiren Rijiju over misleading the Parliament over the2013 Waqf board issue.
Rijju claimed, "Congress said any person can create Waqf in 2013. On March 5, 2014, the UPA transferred 123 prime properties to Delhi Waqf Board just before polls." "What he said about 2013 is misleading. He must authenticate it," said Gogoi. We have reversed it to say that only such a person who follows Islam for at least five years can create Waqf.
Apr 2, 2025 01:11 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju slams Oppn over misleading people on Waqf Bill
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, taking part in the Waqf Bill debate, said, "Some claim that the government will snatch Masjids and Dargahs -- these were the people who claimed that Muslims’ citizenship would be snatched by CAA? Has that happened? Will you apologise for misleading people?"
"We will welcome your suggestions when we make the Rules or subordinate legislation. We have changed the definition to ensure that Muslims can govern their own properties through thr Waqf Board or a Trust. We have become MPs not on the basis of religion. We represent all people of our constituency. How can we, then, ask how non-Muslims are being included in it? Because this is just property management; it is not about religion. Under this, a man can create a Waqf only on property fully owned by him. No one can deprive women and children of the family of their rights to create a Waqf." he added further.
Apr 2, 2025 12:52 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: AIMPLB calls Waqf bill a 'political bill', says serves 'communal agenda of the BJP'
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) called it a "black day" as the Waqf bill was tabled in Parliament today.
Calling it a "political bill" which is discriminatory and serves the "communal agenda of the BJP", AIMPLB spokesperson SQR Ilyas, in a press conference, said, "We will not sit idle. Will will stage nation-wide peaceful agitation. Will stage dharna and road blockade. Will explore all democratic mediums to oppose this law."
Apr 2, 2025 12:21 PM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'Our committees use their brain, unlike committees in Congress,' says Amit Shah
Union Minister and BJP leader Amit Shah slammed the Congress in Lok Sabha during the Waqf Bill debate. "The Cabinet approved a Bill and introduced it in Parliament. It was sent to the Joint Parliamentary Committee, as the opposition wanted. The committee took a call on it, and its recommendations went to the Cabinet. Kiren Rijiju ji is bringing its recommendations to the House. Our committees use their brain, unlike committees in the Congress times that just gave their stamp of approval," he said.
Meanwhile, the RSP NK Premchandan MP from Kerala said that the committee has no right to make amendments to the Bill, which has been done in this case (Waqf Bill). In response to this, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said, "The committee has the right to make amendments to a Bill. It can even change the name of a Bill. It can bring new provisions to a Bill. Many joint committees in the past have made such amendments to Bills."
Apr 2, 2025 11:44 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates | Allies to go with Waqf Bill despite ‘concerns’, NDA numbers far ahead: 293 to 241
While a united Opposition has resolved to press for voting on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which is set to be debated in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, the Narendra Modi government appears comfortably placed to get the Bill passed.
In the 543-member House, the BJP-led NDA currently has 293 members. The Bill needs 272 votes in favour for passage. The INDIA bloc in comparison has 235 MPs in all, with the total 241 taking into account non-aligned parties such as the AIMIM, YSRCP and Aazad Samaj Party which have also announced opposition to the Bill.
While the BJP itself has 240 members, the allies on its side are the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) with 16 MPs; Janata Dal (United) with 12 MPs; Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) with 5; the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena with 7; the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) and JanaSena Party (JSP), with 2 MPs each; and the NCP, Apna Dal, Hindustani Awam Morcha, All Jharkhand Students’ Union and Northeast parties AGP, UPPL and SKM with one 1 MP each.
The JD(U) and TDP have expressed concerns over certain provisions of the Bill, but are expected to support it. Sources in these parties said their members may move amendments to certain clauses but will support the Bill.
The Opposition parties which have announced they will vote against the Bill are the Congress (99 MPs), Samajwadi Party (37), Trinamool Congress (28), DMK (22), Shiv Sena-UBT (9), NCP-SP (8), CPI-M (4), RJD (4), Aam Aadmi Party (3), JMM (3), IUML (3), and J-K National Conference (2), apart from 13 others. Among the non-aligned parties opposed to the Bill, the AIMIM and Aazad Samaj Party have 1 MP each and the YSRCP 4.
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: BRS to oppose Waqf bill in RS
The BRS on Wednesday said that it will oppose the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in its current form in the Parliament.
BRS Working President K T Rama Rama Rao said his party will offer its argument on the floor of the House when it comes to Rajya Sabha on Thursday.
The opposition party has no representation in Lok Sabha. “It will come to Rajya Sabha tomorrow. We don't have members in Lok Sabha. We have taken a decision to oppose the Bill in the current form. And we want arguments to be heard, because there are four or five sections within the Bill which we have objections to,” Rama Rao told PTI.
BRS has four members in the Upper House.
Apr 2, 2025 11:33 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Cong leader Gaurav Gogoi to speak first from Oppn on Waqf Bill debate
The Deputy Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, will be the first speaker for the Waqf Bill debate, sources told The Indian Express.
"Clause-by-clause discussion, which should have happened in the JPC, was not done. The government's attitude from day one has been to bring such a law which is against the Constitution and minorities, which will disturb the peace in the country," he said.
Apr 2, 2025 11:16 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi arrives in Parliamet in black attire
Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi arrived at the Parliament on Wednesday wearing black attire to protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill, which will be introduced in Lok Sabha today. Pratapgarhi was seen holding a placard that read "Reject Waqf Bill."
Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi arrives at the Parliament wearing black attire to protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill, which will be introduced in Lok Sabha today pic.twitter.com/5UdDhZedtH
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'This will be a historic bill, to benefit poor Muslims,' says JPC Chairman Jagdambika Pal
Speaking about the Waqf Amendment Bill, which is set to be re-introduced in Lok Sabha today, Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) Chairman and BJP MP Jagdambika Pal said, “The government is bringing the Waqf Amendment Bill with the objective of addressing concerns after extensive consultations with all stakeholders, including Muslim organisations across the country. We have submitted a 428-page report, which has been approved, and now the government is presenting the amended bill. This will be a historic bill, benefiting poor Muslims."
VIDEO | Here’s what Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) Chairman and BJP MP Jagdambika Pal (@jagdambikapalmp) said on the Waqf Amendment Bill, which is scheduled to be tabled in Parliament later today:
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: 'Attack on religious freedom,' says Andhra Cong Chief Sharmila Vijayawada
Calling it a "black day" for India, Andhra Pradesh Congress Chief Y S Sharmila Reddy on Wednesday condemned the Waqf Amendment Bill as an "attempt to undermine" the religious freedom granted to Muslims under the Constitution.
"The bill is a "plot" to suppress minorities and a violation of constitutional values," Sharmila Reddy said, PTI news agency reported.
The APCC president claimed that the bill was part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's agenda to allegedly hurt Muslim sentiments and a means to incite religious hatred.
“The bill's provisions allowing government officials to supervise Waqf properties and requiring documents for properties dating back 300 years are deeply concerning, adding that, the stipulation that individuals must follow Islamic practices for five years before receiving Waqf land is unacceptable," she said on X. The bill not only disrespects the religious sentiments of Muslims but also allows the government to control Waqf assets and give them to Modi's allies, she remarked.
Apr 2, 2025 10:16 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Key concerns about Waqf Bill, govt’s reasoning for it
Survey of properties
The 1995 Act prescribes a survey of auqaf (plural of waqf) by a Survey Commissioner appointed by the state government. The amendment Bill replaces the Survey Commissioner with the District Collector or any other officer not below the rank of a Deputy Collector duly nominated by the Collector.
It is learnt that the government’s reasoning for this change is that survey work has been poor in several states. Officials said that in Gujarat and Uttarakhand, surveys have not yet begun, while a survey ordered in Uttar Pradesh in 2014 is still pending.
Representation on Boards
Another criticism of the Bill is that it changes the representation of Waqf Boards.
The Bill proposes allowing a non-Muslim Chief Executive Officer, and at least two non-Muslim members to be appointed by the state government to the Waqf Boards at the state level. Critics of the Bill argue that this could interfere with the community’s right to manage its own affairs, a constitutionally protected right.
On the issue of having non-Muslim representation in the Waqf Board, government officials argue that the move is aimed at bringing expertise and promotes transparency without undermining community representation.
While there will be non-Muslim members on the Board, they will not form the majority, government sources said.
BJP MP Abhijit Gangopadhyay proposed an amendment to this provision before the House panel, which would ensure a more inclusive representation — that the state government official who is part of the Waqf Board shall be a Joint Secretary-level officer “dealing with Waqf matters”.
Application of Limitation Act
The Bill proposes to delete Section 107 of the 1995 law that had made the Limitation Act, 1963 inapplicable to Waqf properties.
The Limitation Act is a statutory bar on individuals from filing cases after a period of time. Essentially, this provision ensured that the Waqf Board is not limited by the statutory timeframe of 12 years to file a case to reclaim its properties from encroachment.
Opposition members have argued that the deletion of this provision will allow a person who has unlawfully possessed Waqf property for more than 12 years to claim its title by adverse possession.
Apr 2, 2025 09:58 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Why NDA govt received major criticism for Waqf Bill ?
A major criticism of the opponents of the Bill is that it gives the government a handle to regulate the management of Waqf properties, and the power to determine whether a property is a Waqf.
Section 40 of the Waqf Act empowers the Waqf Board to decide if a property is Waqf property. The decision of the Board would be final unless it is revoked or modified by the Waqf Tribunal.
The Bill extends this power, which currently lies with the Waqf Tribunal, to the District Collector.
The Bill states that “any government property identified or declared as Waqf property, before or after the commencement of the Act, shall not be deemed to be a Waqf property.” This determination, however, is to be made by the Collector, not the Waqf Tribunal.
The Bill also states that until the government makes a decision, the disputed property will be treated as a government property and not a Waqf property.
The government’s intention behind bringing this crucial change is the alleged misuse of Waqf laws, sources said. According to government officials, Section 40 of the Waqf Act is “widely misused to declare private properties as Waqf properties, causing legal battles and unrest”.
The Joint Committee of Parliament that considered the Bill recommended an amendment proposed by a TDP MP to replace the District Collector in the dispute resolution process with a more senior officer of the state government.
The amendments also seek to remove the concept of “Waqf by use”, which means that a property can be deemed to be a Waqf through use as a Waqf, even if the original declaration is suspect.
In Islamic law, the dedication of a property as Waqf was done largely verbally until documentation became the standard norm. For example, even in the absence of a Waqfnama, a masjid can be deemed to be Waqf property if it is continuously used as such.
The Bill, by omitting the provisions relating to the “Waqf by user,” makes a Waqf property suspect in the absence of a valid Waqfnama.
Apr 2, 2025 09:37 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Jana Sena Party extends support to Waqf Bill
The Jana Sena Party in Andhra Pradesh, led by Deputy Chief Minister and actor K Pawan Kalyan, extended support to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which is set to be tabled in Parliament today.
"Jana Sena Party has extended support to the Waqf Bill. JSP believes that the law amendments will benefit the Muslim community. In this regard, party president K Pawan Kalyan has given directions to the JSP MPs to participate in the voting in favor of this Bill. A Joint Parliamentary Committee with 31 members has been formed to review the bill related to the amendments to the Waqf Act. This bill was drafted after discussions with the relevant sections, educated people and experts in the field of governance. Broad results can be achieved only by streamlining the British-era Waqf Act in a manner suitable for today’s times. In this context, the Waqf Amendment Bill should be supported,’’ said P Hariprasad, Political Secretary to Pawan Kalyan.
The JSP has two MPs in the Lok Sabha- Vallabhaneni Balashowry from Machilipatnam and Tangella Uday Srinivas from Kakinada- who won in the 2024 general elections.
The JSP, which won 21 Assembly seats, is a partner in the Telugu Desam Party led NDA government.
From Sreenivas Janyala
Apr 2, 2025 09:24 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: How the numbers stack up?
In the Lok Sabha, with allies TDP and JD(U), the NDA seems to have the numbers to ensure that the Bill sails through.
In the Rajya Sabha, which has a strength of 245, the NDA has 125 MPs. With nine berths vacant, the NDA needs the support of 118 MPs — which it has — to ensure that the Bill passes.
While the BJP has issued a whip to all its Lok Sabha MPs directing them to be present in the House on Wednesday, the Opposition INDIA bloc was holding a meeting on Tuesday evening to discuss their floor strategy for when the Bill is introduced in Parliament.
Among the non-aligned parties, the Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy-led YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has said it will oppose the Bill in both Houses. So will Owaisi and Chandrashekhar Azad of the Aazad Samaj Party (Kanshi Ram).
Apr 2, 2025 08:56 AM IST
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Exclusive | BJP ally TDP to seek one key change in Waqf Bill, on inclusion of non-Muslims in boards
The Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which is a key ally in the Narendra Modi government, is expected to ask for one key amendment to the Waqf Bill, which will be taken up for discussion in the House on Wednesday.
Sources told The Indian Express that the party, which on Tuesday issued a whip to its 16 MPs to be present in the Lok Sabha and support the government, will raise the issue of the Bill allowing for non-Muslims in state Waqf boards. “The party will unanimously demand that representation of non-Muslims in the board be left to the discretion of the respective states,” a TDP source said.
The source added that the party would support all other amendments to the Bill, including inclusion of women in Waqf boards.
Sources said that TDP leaders, including its chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, were part of discussions till almost midnight Tuesday, consulting legal experts on the provisions of the Bill and its implications. Naidu has also been in talks with Muslim groups to see what is acceptable to them and what is not.
The TDP’s opposition to inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf boards should be considered an assurance to the Muslim community in Andhra Pradesh by the party that “no major changes will be affected in the Waqf Act”, a TDP source said.
Waqf Amendment Bill Live Updates: Why does the Centre want to amend the Waqf Bill? Why does the Oppn oppose it?
The primary objection to the Waqf Bill, 2025 is framed in questioning the need for bringing a new law that changes the way Waqfs are managed.
Asaduddin Owaisi of the All-India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) has said that the Bill’s objective is to weaken the foundations of Waqf governance and to undermine the rights of Muslims.
Government officials say that the 1995 Act contains some loopholes with regard to the regulation of Waqf properties including title disputes, and the illegal occupation of Waqf land, which has prompted the Centre to bring a fresh law.
Also, the lack of judicial oversight on Waqf management is a key issue, according to officials. Questions concerning Waqf properties are heard by the Waqf Tribunal whose decisions cannot be challenged in court.
The Bill is also being brought at a time when the constitutional validity of the Waqf Act is under challenge before the Delhi High Court. The government has argued that a unified digital listing of Waqf properties, which is mandated by the Bill, will bring down litigation and ensure transparency and efficiency in governing Waqf properties.
