Thu Apr 03 12:02:00 UTC 2025: ## Waqf Amendment Bill Clears Rajya Sabha After Heated Debate

**New Delhi** – The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, has been passed by the Rajya Sabha, concluding its parliamentary journey. The bill, which had previously cleared the Lok Sabha in a closely contested vote (288-232) after a marathon 12-hour debate, aims to improve the management of Waqf properties.

Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju reiterated that the legislation is not intended to discriminate against Muslims or infringe on their religious freedoms. He emphasized that the bill, which was revised by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), seeks to address shortcomings in previous government efforts to manage Waqf assets.

The Lok Sabha debate saw intense exchanges between the ruling coalition and the opposition, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah accusing the Congress party of spreading misinformation and engaging in vote-bank politics by portraying the bill as an attack on Muslim religious practices and property rights. Mr. Shah asserted that the bill does not interfere with religious matters. The Rajya Sabha passed the bill following this contentious debate and assurances from the government.

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