The Waqf Amendment Bill passed the Lok Sabha in the early hours of Thursday following a heated 12-hour debate. Despite fierce opposition, the government's numerical strength ensured its approval with a 288-232 vote. The bill, now set for Rajya Sabha, seeks to amend the 1995 Waqf Act, sparking controversy over key provisions.

A major point of contention is the mandatory inclusion of two non-Muslim members in Waqf boards. The bill also limits property donations to Waqf to individuals who have practiced Islam for at least five years. Additionally, government land identified as Waqf will cease to belong to the state, with ownership determined by the local Collector.

The Opposition, alleging constitutional violations, accused the government of targeting minorities. Congress leaders labeled it an "assault on the Constitution," while AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi dramatically tore a copy of the bill in protest. The government defended the amendment, arguing it seeks transparency in Waqf property management, curbing alleged irregularities.

Union Minister Amit Shah presented cases of disputed Waqf claims, citing instances where government and temple lands were declared Waqf properties. He argued that Waqf expansion under previous laws allowed for wrongful claims, facilitated by appeasement politics.

Congress’s Gaurav Gogoi criticized the bill, questioning its origin and intent. Shiromani Akali Dal’s Harsimrat Kaur Badal accused the BJP of exploiting religious sentiments ahead of elections.

The bill also stipulates that disputes over Waqf properties will be decided by senior government officials rather than Waqf tribunals. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board has vowed legal action, warning of nationwide protests.

With the bill heading to Rajya Sabha, a fresh political battle looms over its implications for religious and property rights.

The Waqf Amendment Bill passed the Lok Sabha in the early hours of Thursday following a heated 12-hour debate. Despite fierce opposition, the government's numerical strength ensured its approval with a 288-232 vote. The bill, now set for Rajya Sabha, seeks to amend the 1995 Waqf Act, sparking controversy over key provisions.

A major point of contention is the mandatory inclusion of two non-Muslim members in Waqf boards. The bill also limits property donations to Waqf to individuals who have practiced Islam for at least five years. Additionally, government land identified as Waqf will cease to belong to the state, with ownership determined by the local Collector.

The Opposition, alleging constitutional violations, accused the government of targeting minorities. Congress leaders labeled it an "assault on the Constitution," while AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi dramatically tore a copy of the bill in protest. The government defended the amendment, arguing it seeks transparency in Waqf property management, curbing alleged irregularities.

Union Minister Amit Shah presented cases of disputed Waqf claims, citing instances where government and temple lands were declared Waqf properties. He argued that Waqf expansion under previous laws allowed for wrongful claims, facilitated by appeasement politics.

Congress’s Gaurav Gogoi criticized the bill, questioning its origin and intent. Shiromani Akali Dal’s Harsimrat Kaur Badal accused the BJP of exploiting religious sentiments ahead of elections.

The bill also stipulates that disputes over Waqf properties will be decided by senior government officials rather than Waqf tribunals. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board has vowed legal action, warning of nationwide protests.

With the bill heading to Rajya Sabha, a fresh political battle looms over its implications for religious and property rights.