Thu Apr 03 11:27:35 UTC 2025: ## Waqf Amendment Bill Passes Lok Sabha Amidst Opposition Protest

**New Delhi:** The Lok Sabha passed the Waqf Amendment Bill late last night, sparking immediate controversy. While the government claims the bill will improve the efficiency and transparency of Waqf Boards, the Opposition alleges it’s a thinly veiled attempt to seize control of vast Waqf properties.

The bill introduces several key changes to the 1995 Waqf Act. It restricts who can declare a Waqf, requiring five years of practicing Islam and ownership of the property. “Waqf by user,” allowing properties to be declared Waqf based solely on prolonged use, is removed. The bill also clarifies inheritance rights, prevents government properties from being designated as Waqf, and limits the Waqf board’s power to determine Waqf status. Importantly, it allows appeals of Waqf Tribunal decisions in High Court. The composition of the Central Waqf Council and Waqf Boards will also change, including the addition of non-Muslim members.

The government argues the changes address numerous issues, including disputes over Waqf properties—an estimated 8.7 lakh properties totaling 9.4 lakh acres, valued at ₹1.2 lakh crore. They cite thousands of pending cases, including disputes between Muslims and Waqf institutions. Minister Kiren Rijiju lauded the bill, predicting it would benefit millions of poor Muslims.

However, the Opposition strongly criticized the bill. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) and other Muslim organizations denounced the bill as discriminatory and a violation of fundamental rights, fearing it will facilitate the seizure of Waqf lands. The AIMIM’s Asaduddin Owaisi dramatically tore up a copy of the bill during the debate, calling it unconstitutional. The Congress and Samajwadi Party echoed these concerns, with accusations of a government misinformation campaign and attempts to mask failures.

The debate highlighted concerns over the historical significance of Waqf properties, including famous landmarks like the Jama Masjid in Delhi and the Bada Imambara in Lucknow. Recent incidents, such as the Tamil Nadu Waqf Board’s claim on a village including a centuries-old temple, fueled opposition anxieties. The bill’s passage leaves the future of Waqf lands and the concerns of the Muslim community unresolved.

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