PM Narendra Modi described the passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill in Parliament as a “watershed moment,” emphasizing that it would empower marginalized voices within the Muslim community and enhance transparency in the management of Waqf properties. The bill, which gives the government a greater role in regulating Waqf properties, was approved by both Houses after extensive debates that lasted well into the night over two days.
This bill marks the second major reform initiated by the BJP aimed at the Muslim community, following the 2019 law that made the practice of triple talaq illegal.
In his comments, PM Modi aligned with the BJP’s narrative that the Waqf bill is a reform intended to benefit the poorer segments of the Muslim population, who, according to the party, have long been excluded from decision-making within the community. He highlighted that the Waqf system had been associated with a lack of transparency for years, to the detriment of poor Muslims, women, and Pasmanda Muslims.
“The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill by both Houses of Parliament marks a watershed moment in our collective quest for socio-economic justice, transparency and inclusive growth. This will particularly help those who have long remained on the margins, thus being denied both voice and opportunity,” Modi wrote on X.
He added, “Gratitude to all Members of Parliament who participated in the Parliamentary and Committee discussions, voiced their perspectives and contributed to the strengthening of these legislations. A special thanks also to the countless people who sent their valuable inputs to the Parliamentary committee. Yet again, the importance of extensive debate and dialogue has been reaffirmed.”
The bill mandates that the Waqf Council include a maximum of four non-Muslim members, with at least two women, and grants senior officers above the rank of district collectors the authority to determine whether a property is Waqf or belongs to the government.
The PM further wrote, “For decades, the Waqf system was synonymous with lack of transparency and accountability. This especially harmed the interests of Muslim women, poor Muslims, Pasmanda Muslims. The legislations passed by Parliament will boost transparency and also safeguard people’s rights.”
He added, “We will now enter an era where the framework will be more modern and sensitive to social justice. On a larger note, we remain committed to prioritising the dignity of every citizen. This is also how we build a stronger, more inclusive and more compassionate India.”
