President Droupadi Murmu has given her approval to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which was hotly debated and passed by both houses of parliament. The new law aims to prevent favoritism, misuse of Waqf properties, and encroachments on Waqf assets. Despite opposition and legal challenges from the Congress, AIMIM, and AAP, the ruling NDA government insists that the law is not discriminatory towards Muslims.
After six months of discussions and the formation of a joint parliamentary committee, the amendment was introduced and successfully passed in both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha. However, Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi, and AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan have filed separate petitions in the Supreme Court, alleging that the law violates the fundamental rights of Muslims.
The All-India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has also expressed its opposition to the new law, announcing nationwide campaigns and protests to counter what they call “misinformation” and promote peaceful activism. Despite the backlash, the government maintains that the law will benefit Muslim women and increase transparency in managing Waqf properties.
BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad defended the bill, stating that it will hold Waqf boards accountable and ensure transparency. He reassured the public that no mosques or graveyards will be affected by the law. The government’s stance on the matter remains firm, emphasizing the positive impact the law will have on the management of Waqf properties.
