Wed Apr 02 12:15:19 UTC 2025: ## Parliament Locked in Fiery Debate Over Waqf Bill
**New Delhi:** The Lok Sabha witnessed a heated debate today over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, with the government and opposition clashing sharply over its implications. The bill, aimed at improving the administration of Waqf properties, sparked strong reactions from both sides.
Union Ministers Amit Shah and Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, asserting that amendments were necessary to address issues created by previous legislation. Shah emphasized the government’s use of a parliamentary committee to refine the bill, while Rijiju denied any intention of government interference in religious institutions, blaming the opposition for misleading the public.
However, opposition members vehemently opposed the bill. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi criticized the government, alleging the bill aims to tarnish the image of the Muslim community and accusing the ruling party of employing a “divide and rule” strategy. Samajwadi Party MP Akhilesh Yadav targeted the BJP’s leadership, while DMK MP D Raja expressed concern that the bill represents a move away from the secular principles enshrined in the Constitution. Raja highlighted the irony of a party with no Muslim members supposedly protecting minority rights.
The debate highlighted deep divisions over the bill’s potential impact and its implications for religious harmony in India. The heated exchanges underscore the significant political stakes attached to the legislation.
First Piper 