President Droupadi Murmu has given her approval to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, officially turning it into law after it was passed by both Houses of Parliament following intense debates. The Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 aims to address misuse, encroachment, and lack of transparency in the management of Waqf properties across India.
The passage of the bill has triggered legal challenges from opposition parties. Congress, AIMIM, and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have filed separate petitions in the Supreme Court, questioning the constitutional validity of the new law.
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According to the NDA government, the law is designed to curb favouritism, prevent misuse of Waqf assets, and ensure transparency in property management. The government has clarified that the Waqf Amendment Act is not anti-Muslim and is meant to bring reforms that benefit the community, particularly Muslim women.
The bill, which underwent six months of deliberations and the formation of a joint parliamentary committee, was passed with 128 votes in favour and 95 against in the Rajya Sabha. In the Lok Sabha, it received 288 votes in favour and 232 against.
However, opposition leaders remain critical. Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi, and AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan have submitted petitions in the Supreme Court, alleging that the new law is “discriminatory towards Muslims” and a “blatant violation of fundamental rights.”
The All-India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has also voiced strong opposition to the Act. The AIMPLB announced nationwide campaigns and peaceful protests, asserting that the law promotes “misinformation” and calling for corrective action.
Despite the backlash, the government maintains that the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 will introduce historic reforms and serve the long-term interests of the community by ensuring accountability and equity in the use of Waqf properties.
