PM Modi Hails Waqf Bill Passage as Milestone for Transparency and Marginalised Communities
Hours after the Rajya Sabha cleared the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the move a historic step towards inclusive development and justice for the underrepresented. He described the passage of the bills as a “watershed moment” that would empower communities long denied a voice.
In a detailed post on X (formerly Twitter), Modi expressed gratitude to the Members of Parliament and the public who shared insights with the Joint Parliamentary Committee during the legislative process.
“The passing of these two significant bills marks a turning point in our pursuit of transparency, accountability, and socio-economic equality,” Modi said. “They will especially empower those who have historically been sidelined, giving them the voice and opportunities they deserve.”
Modi further thanked MPs for their participation and praised the spirit of discussion and dialogue that shaped the final form of the bills. “This shows how vital extensive consultation is to good governance,” he added.
Restoring Accountability in the Waqf System
One of the central aims behind the amendment, according to the government, is to address the lack of accountability in the Waqf system. Modi echoed this concern in his post, stating that the system had particularly failed Muslim women, the economically disadvantaged, and Pasmanda Muslims.
“For decades, the Waqf system lacked transparency. This resulted in injustice, especially for Muslim women and the underprivileged,” the Prime Minister noted. “The new legislation ensures their rights are protected and sets the stage for a more modern and equitable system.”
Modi affirmed that the updated legal framework will usher in a new era of fairness, calling it a reflection of the government’s commitment to uphold dignity and justice for every citizen.
Parliament Clears Bill After Lengthy Debate
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill passed through intense scrutiny, with debates running over 12 hours in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The Lok Sabha approved the bill with a 288-232 vote, while the Rajya Sabha passed it with 128 votes in favor and 95 against during a session that extended past midnight.
Alongside the amendment, the Rajya Sabha also approved the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024 after an extensive 17-hour sitting.
Government vs Opposition Showdown
The legislation triggered a fierce political battle between the ruling government and the Opposition. While Union Minister Kiren Rijiju tabled and defended the bills, arguing they would not infringe on community rights, Opposition parties called them “unconstitutional” and “anti-Muslim.”
Rijiju countered these claims, saying the bills are welcomed by large sections of the Muslim community and would benefit millions by making the Waqf system more accountable and equitable.
“These reforms are not about taking away rights—they are about ensuring justice and restoring transparency,” he stated.
