The Waqf (Amendment) Bill has successfully cleared both Houses of Parliament after extensive debates, marking a significant legislative milestone. The bill, aimed at amending the Waqf Act of 1995 and repealing the Mussalman Wakf Act of 1923, now awaits the final step—Presidential assent.
Marathon Debate and Heated Exchanges
The Rajya Sabha passed the bill in the early hours of Friday following a 14-hour marathon debate marked by heated exchanges between the treasury and opposition benches. The bill was passed with 128 votes in favour and 95 against. The Lok Sabha had earlier approved the bill after a 12-hour debate with 288 votes in favour and 232 against.
The debate in both Houses was intense, reflecting the bill’s contentious nature. The ruling NDA government, projecting the bill as a major decision within the first year of Modi 3.0, has emphasized that the amendments are crucial for modernizing and managing Waqf properties more efficiently.
Political Dynamics and Unexpected Support
A surprising twist came from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which allowed a “conscience vote” for its MPs. This decision led to some members cross-voting in favour of the NDA, boosting its tally beyond the expected numbers. Originally, the NDA was expected to secure around 123 votes in the Rajya Sabha but managed to secure 128, thanks to cross-voting. On the other hand, the INDIA bloc, projected to secure 98 votes, ended with 95.
BJD’s decision not to issue a whip to its 7 MPs allowed them to vote freely, which proved beneficial for the government. The bill required at least 119 votes to pass in the Upper House, and with efficient floor management, the NDA comfortably achieved this figure.
Opposition’s Stand and Legal Challenge
The opposition, particularly the Indian National Congress (INC), has voiced strong objections to the bill’s provisions. INC leader publicly announced plans to challenge the constitutionality of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Supreme Court. The party argued that the amendments infringe on minority rights and questioned the government’s intentions behind repealing the 1923 act.
Presidential Assent: The Final Step
Once the bill reaches President Droupadi Murmu and receives her approval, it will become law. The government expects the assent to be granted without significant delay, unlike the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which faced prolonged consideration.
For the NDA, the bill’s passage is a key milestone in its legislative agenda, signaling its resolve to streamline Waqf property management. The government is keen on swiftly notifying the implementation once the President gives her assent.
The Congress has vowed to challenge the bill’s constitutional validity, setting the stage for a legal battle. Meanwhile, political observers are keenly watching how this development will impact the NDA’s support among minorities, given the controversy surrounding the amendments.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill’s passage marks a pivotal moment in the Indian legislative landscape. As it moves to the President for final approval, the country waits to see the outcome of the impending legal challenge and its implications for minority rights.
