Wed Apr 02 07:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Wakf Amendment Bill Sparks Heated Debate in Lok Sabha

**New Delhi, India** – The Lok Sabha witnessed a heated debate on Wednesday over the Wakf Amendment Bill, introduced by Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju. The bill, which has been met with strong opposition from the INDIA alliance, will be debated for eight hours.

The INDIA alliance, comprising several opposition parties, held a meeting on Tuesday to formulate a joint strategy to oppose the bill. Conversely, the BJP issued a whip to its Lok Sabha MPs, ensuring their presence for the debate.

The NDA, led by the BJP, holds a clear majority in the Lok Sabha (293 seats out of 542), making the passage of the bill highly likely. The INDIA alliance, with 234 seats, lacks the numbers to block it. The NDA also enjoys a comfortable majority in the Rajya Sabha. While parties like the JD(U) and TDP, both part of the NDA, have pledged support, concerns remain regarding their potential loss of Muslim voter support. The TDP, despite its support, plans to propose amendments.

The bill has faced significant criticism, particularly concerning the inclusion of non-Muslims in the Central Wakf Council and Wakf Boards. The bill also grants district collectors the authority to conduct surveys and make final decisions regarding disputed Wakf properties. The AIMIM’s Asaduddin Owaisi has been vocal in his opposition, urging other NDA members to reconsider their support. Several other opposition parties, including the SP, TMC, AAP, and NCP, have also denounced the bill as unconstitutional.

The outcome of the debate hinges on the voting pattern, but with the NDA’s substantial majority, the bill’s passage appears probable. The opposition’s united front, however, aims to highlight the bill’s controversial provisions and raise public awareness. The bill’s provisions, including the mandatory inclusion of non-Muslim and female members in the Central Wakf Council and the creation of separate boards for Bohra and Aga Khani communities, remain key points of contention.

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