Overview

• The Lok Sabha approved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in a 288-232 vote following a 12-hour debate that extended into the early hours of April 3, 2025.
• The bill proposes significant changes, including the inclusion of non-Muslim members in Waqf boards for administrative purposes and stricter regulations on property donations to Waqf.
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah defended the bill, stating it aims to ensure transparent management of Waqf properties and does not interfere with religious practices.
• Opposition leaders and minority groups, including the AIMPLB, criticized the bill as unconstitutional and vowed to challenge it in court, citing concerns over minority rights and federalism.
• The bill, which incorporates 14 recommendations from a Parliamentary Committee, is set to be debated in the Rajya Sabha, where its passage remains uncertain.