Waqf Amendment Bill sparks celebrations among Muslim community ahead of passage

The highly debated Waqf Amendment Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha today by Union Minorities Minister Kiren Rijiju, sparking both opposition and celebration. While opposition members voiced strong objections, the central government remains confident of securing the bill’s passage.

Also read: Waqf Bill: It’s advantage BJP-led NDA even as Opposition resists

The bill has been under extensive discussion, with approximately 9.7 lakh suggestions reviewed. Minister Rijiju criticized opposition leaders for allegedly misleading the public about the bill’s provisions. The government has clarified that the Waqf Board is a statutory body, not a religious entity, and the amendment does not violate constitutional provisions under Articles 25, 26, or 30. Furthermore, the government asserts that Waqf properties have never been directly managed by the board, and the amendment will not affect the community adversely.

With 542 seats in the Lok Sabha, the ruling NDA holds 293 seats, while the opposition INDIA bloc has 233. The bill requires a minimum of 272 votes to pass. If approved in the Lok Sabha, it will move to the Rajya Sabha before reaching the President for final assent.

Even before its passage, celebrations erupted across Muslim communities. Thousands gathered in Madhya Pradesh, particularly in Bhopal, where Muslim men and women held images of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and presented roses in support of the bill. A viral video of these celebrations has been widely shared on social media, highlighting the bill’s impact beyond the parliamentary chambers.

Muslim women came out in support of #WaqfAmendmentBill in Bhopal.

Ye kaisa Masterstroke hai 😂🔥 pic.twitter.com/OLegv3Zalt

— BALA (@erbmjha)

Muslim women came out in support of #WaqfAmendmentBill in Bhopal.

Ye kaisa Masterstroke hai 😂🔥 pic.twitter.com/OLegv3Zalt

— BALA (@erbmjha) April 2, 2025

">April 2, 2025