Hours after the Parliament passed&nbsp;the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025, two petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the bill. The Waqf bill makes several changes to the 1995 Act governing Waqfs.
The first petition was filed by Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, contending that the law violates Constitutional rights guaranteed under Articles 14 (right to equality), 25 (freedom to practice religion), 26 (freedom to manage religious affairs), 29 (minority rights) and 300A (right to property). All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) MP Asaduddin Owaisi has filed the second petition, terming the proposed law a "brazen violation" of the fundamental rights of Muslims and the Muslim community.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/waqf-bill-debate-in-india-how-are-waqf-assets-managed-in-other-countries-see-list-8917665" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Waqf bill debate in India: How are waqf assets managed in other countries? See list</a>
<h2>What does the petitioner say in his petition against Waqf Bill?</h2>
In the petition, Jawed claims that the Act discriminates against the Muslim community by imposing restrictions. The petitioner argues that the Amendment allows state interference in the administration of waqfs. It shifts key administrative functions, such as the power to determine the nature of Waqf properties, from the Waqf Board to the District Collector. This transfer of control from religious institutions to government officials dilutes the autonomy of Waqf management and contravenes Article 26(d) of the Constitution, the plea states.&nbsp;The petitioner also took objection to the provisions allowing the inclusion of non-Muslims in the Central Waqf Council and the State Waqf Board. The petitioner also questions the condition in the Bill that one should be a practitioner of Islam for at least five years to create a Waqf, saying that such a limitation "infringes upon the fundamental right to profess and practice religion under Article 25."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-clears-waqf-amendment-bill-2025-after-intense-debate-pm-modi-calls-it-watershed-moment-8923850" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read More | Parliament clears Waqf (Amendment) Bill after intense debate, PM Modi calls it 'watershed moment'</a>
<h2>What is Waqf Amendment Bill?</h2>
The bill seeks to manage waqf properties better, empower stakeholders involved, and make it possible to do an efficient survey of the properties. As per the bill, only lawful property owners can create waqf. In the case of 'waqf alal aulad', wherein the ancestral property is given as waqf, the inheritance rights of heirs, including females, should not be affected, as per the provisions of the bill.&nbsp;
It also makes it mandatory to register waqf properties online, for which a portal will be created. The current time given for registration is six months, but extensions can be taken by approaching the Waqf Tribunals. Another key area addressed by the bill is the wrongful declaration of properties as waqf, including government property. In such disputes, a state government officer will conduct an inquiry. The inspection of Waqf records will now come under section 75 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, the replacement of the erstwhile Evidence Act.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-clears-waqf-amendment-bill-2025-after-intense-debate-pm-modi-calls-it-watershed-moment-8923850" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read More | Parliament clears Waqf (Amendment) Bill after intense debate, PM Modi calls it 'watershed moment'</a>
In case the government acquires waqf properties for development or infrastructure projects, the compensation will be given under the 2013 law on compensation, or any other law relating to the acquisition of land.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brazen-assault-congress-sonia-gandhi-slams-bjp-after-waqf-bill-was-passed-in-rajya-sabha-8920165" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read More |&nbsp; 'Brazen assault': Congress' Sonia Gandhi slams BJP after Waqf bill was passed in Rajya Sabha</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Hours after the Parliament passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025, a petition has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the bill by a Congress MP

Hours after the Parliament passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025, two petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the bill. The Waqf bill makes several changes to the 1995 Act governing Waqfs. The first petition was filed by Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, contending that the law violates Constitutional rights guaranteed under Articles 14 (right to equality), 25 (freedom to practice religion), 26 (freedom to manage religious affairs), 29 (minority rights) and 300A (right to property). All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) MP Asaduddin Owaisi has filed the second petition, terming the proposed law a "brazen violation" of the fundamental rights of Muslims and the Muslim community. Read More | Waqf bill debate in India: How are waqf assets managed in other countries? See list What does the petitioner say in his petition against Waqf Bill? In the petition, Jawed claims that the Act discriminates against the Muslim community by imposing restrictions. The petitioner argues that the Amendment allows state interference in the administration of waqfs. It shifts key administrative functions, such as the power to determine the nature of Waqf properties, from the Waqf Board to the District Collector. This transfer of control from religious institutions to government officials dilutes the autonomy of Waqf management and contravenes Article 26(d) of the Constitution, the plea states. The petitioner also took objection to the provisions allowing the inclusion of non-Muslims in the Central Waqf Council and the State Waqf Board. The petitioner also questions the condition in the Bill that one should be a practitioner of Islam for at least five years to create a Waqf, saying that such a limitation "infringes upon the fundamental right to profess and practice religion under Article 25." Read More | Parliament clears Waqf (Amendment) Bill after intense debate, PM Modi calls it 'watershed moment' What is Waqf Amendment Bill? The bill seeks to manage waqf properties better, empower stakeholders involved, and make it possible to do an efficient survey of the properties. As per the bill, only lawful property owners can create waqf. In the case of 'waqf alal aulad', wherein the ancestral property is given as waqf, the inheritance rights of heirs, including females, should not be affected, as per the provisions of the bill. It also makes it mandatory to register waqf properties online, for which a portal will be created. The current time given for registration is six months, but extensions can be taken by approaching the Waqf Tribunals. Another key area addressed by the bill is the wrongful declaration of properties as waqf, including government property. In such disputes, a state government officer will conduct an inquiry. The inspection of Waqf records will now come under section 75 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, the replacement of the erstwhile Evidence Act. Read More | Parliament clears Waqf (Amendment) Bill after intense debate, PM Modi calls it 'watershed moment' In case the government acquires waqf properties for development or infrastructure projects, the compensation will be given under the 2013 law on compensation, or any other law relating to the acquisition of land. Read More | 'Brazen assault': Congress' Sonia Gandhi slams BJP after Waqf bill was passed in Rajya Sabha (With inputs from agencies)

AIMIM's Owaisi, Congress MP file petitions in Supreme Court against Waqf Amendment Bill

The stage is finally set for the revised Waqf (Amendment) Bill to be tabled in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, April 2. Union Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said on Tuesday, &ldquo;On 2nd April, immediately after the Question Hour, I want to introduce the amendment bill for consideration and passing, after that, we have agreed for 8 hours of discussion.&rdquo; &ldquo;Every political party has the right to express its opinion, and the country wants to hear which political party has what stand on the amendment bill. And this will be recorded for thousands of years, this will be on record, who opposed and who supported the amendment bill,&rdquo; he added.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On the Waqf Amendment Bill, Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju says, "...If the House feels that the time for discussion should be extended, then the time can be extended, but if they (opposition) do not want to participate in the discussion by making&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/ouBiSVkZm6">pic.twitter.com/ouBiSVkZm6</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1906985345700557087?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
 The bill must be passed in both Houses of Parliament to become law. The Waqf Act of 1995 that was enacted to regulate Waqf properties has for long drawn criticism due to corruption, encroachments, and mismanagement.
<h2>Waqf and the Waqf Act</h2>
The term waqf refers to the permanent dedication of any movable or immovable property for religious or charitable purposes as recognised by Muslim law. Once declared waqf, the ownership of property is considered transferred to Allah and becomes irrevocable. A mutawalli is appointed to manage the property, and any other use or sale is prohibited. The principle&mdash;&ldquo;Once&ldquo; a waqf, always a waqf&rdquo;&mdash;has&rdquo; created several complex legal scenarios and disputes across India. There is a Central Waqf Board and several state boards. It is to be noted that there is no waqf system in Islamic countries like Turkey, Libya, Jordan, Tunisia, and Egypt, but the waqf network in India is extensive and legally protected. Over the years, there have been many concerns like misuse of power by mutawallis, poor maintenance of property accounts, weak coordination with revenue departments, encroachments, and sweeping authority granted to boards to claim properties. The Waqf Act was first passed by Parliament in 1954. It was later repealed, and a new Waqf Act was passed in 1995, which gave more powers to the Waqf Boards. In 2013, the Act was further amended to grant the Waqf Board extensive powers to designate property as &lsquo;Waqf Property&rsquo;.
<h2>The Waqf Amendment Bill</h2>
On August 8, 2024, the government introduced two bills&mdash;the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024&mdash;aimed at streamlining the functioning of Waqf Boards and improving the management of waqf properties. The amendment seeks to fix gaps in the Waqf Act, 1995, by renaming the Act, updating the definition of waqf, improving registration processes, and integrating technology for better recordkeeping. In September 2024, the Ministry of Minority Affairs shared that 40,951 cases were currently pending in Waqf Tribunals, including 9,942 filed by members of the Muslim community against institutions managing waqf. Moreover, besides the delays in case disposal, there was no judicial oversight over tribunal decisions. The bill was referred to a joint parliamentary committee (JPC), headed by Jagdambika Pal, which submitted its 655-page report to both Houses of Parliament. Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/better-to-split-up-bangladesh-than-northeast-leaders-response-to-yunus-remark-8913690">&lsquo;Better to split up Bangladesh than&hellip;&rsquo;: Northeast leader&rsquo;s response to Yunus remark</a> The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, also called the &lsquo;Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Bill&rsquo;, aims to address key challenges by introducing reforms like digitisation, enhanced audits, improved transparency, and legal mechanisms to reclaim illegally occupied properties.
<h2>Waqf Boards are third largest landowners in India</h2>
Waqf boards currently control 8.7 lakh properties spread across 9.4 lakh acres, with an estimated value of ₹1.2 lakh crore. The Boards are also the country&rsquo;s biggest landowners after the Armed Forces and Indian Railways. Of the 8.7 lakh waqf assets, 356,051 are registered as waqf estates, 872,328 are immovable properties, and 16,713 are movable properties. Despite this, the Boards generate negligible income.
<h2>&lsquo;Waqf properties could yield ₹12,000 crore annually&rsquo;: Sachar panel</h2>
The Sachar Committee, which submitted its report in 2006, observed that if the waqf properties are put to efficient and marketable use, they can generate at least a minimum revenue of 10% which is about ₹12,000 crores per annum. It also recommended various measures to improve the management of waqf, like regulating the functioning of mutawallis, inclusion of non-Muslim technical expertise in management, and of two women members in Central Waqf Board and each State Waqf Board, etc.
<h2>Major disputes, claims by Waqf Boards</h2>
The systemic issues and flaws in waqf property governance have resulted in several cases across India. In one such case, one Rajagopal, a farmer in Tamil Nadu&rsquo;s Thiruchenthurai village, was unable to sell his agricultural land to repay a loan after the Waqf Board laid claim to the entire village. The sale required a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the board, leading to both financial and emotional distress. Records indicate the village was donated as waqf by Nawab Anwardeen Khan in 1956. The situation worsened when the board requested the registration department to assign a &lsquo;zero value&rsquo; to all waqf properties. The Ministry of Minority Affairs intervened and stayed the request to allow property transactions.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-rahul-gandhi-opposing-offshore-drilling-economic-benefits-vs-politics-8910893" rel="dofollow">Why is Rahul Gandhi opposing offshore mining? Economic benefits vs politics</a> In another controversy in Bengaluru, the Waqf Board claimed the Eidgah ground as waqf property, but government records showed there had been no official title transfer to any Muslim organisation. In Surat, the Waqf Board staked claim to the Municipal Corporation building, arguing it had historically functioned as a sarai for pilgrims in the Mughal era. The property later came under British control and was eventually transferred to the Indian government after independence, but the Gujarat Waqf Board reiterated its legal position with the statement: &ldquo;Once a Waqf, always a Waqf.&rdquo; In an even more unusual claim in Devbhoomi Dwarka, the Waqf Board attempted to assert ownership over two islands in Bet Dwarka. The Gujarat High Court was perplexed by the petition and asked the Board to revise it. The judge questioned how the Waqf could claim &lsquo;land in Krishnanagri&rsquo;.
<h2>What is the opposition&rsquo;s stand?</h2>
The opposition has strongly criticised the bill, calling it &lsquo;unconstitutional&rsquo; and accusing BJP of trying to &lsquo;snatch&rsquo; the rights of Muslims. Congress attacked the BJP-led Union government, alleging it was taking the country towards civil war.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-making-a-u-turn-ex-maoist-guerrilla-leads-fight-for-return-of-monarchy-hindu-nation-8911280" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nepal making a U-turn? Ex-Maoist guerrilla leads fight for return of monarchy, Hindu nation</a>
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi says the bill is unconstitutional and a violation of Articles 14, 25, 26 and 29 of the Indian Constitution. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has opposed the bill and accused the BJP of &lsquo;interfering&rsquo; in everything to gain control. Meanwhile, Rijiju asserts that the bill is designed to give rights to those who previously lacked them.
&nbsp;

India News: It is to be noted that there is no waqf system in Islamic countries like Turkey, Libya, Jordan, Tunisia, and Egypt, but the waqf network in India is extensive and legally protected.

The stage is finally set for the revised Waqf (Amendment) Bill to be tabled in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, April 2. Union Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said on Tuesday, “On 2nd April, immediately after the Question Hour, I want to introduce the amendment bill for consideration and passing, after that, we have agreed for 8 hours of discussion.” “Every political party has the right to express its opinion, and the country wants to hear which political party has what stand on the amendment bill. And this will be recorded for thousands of years, this will be on record, who opposed and who supported the amendment bill,” he added. #WATCH | Delhi: On the Waqf Amendment Bill, Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju says, "...If the House feels that the time for discussion should be extended, then the time can be extended, but if they (opposition) do not want to participate in the discussion by making… pic.twitter.com/ouBiSVkZm6 — ANI (@ANI) April 1, 2025 The bill must be passed in both Houses of Parliament to become law. The Waqf Act of 1995 that was enacted to regulate Waqf properties has for long drawn criticism due to corruption, encroachments, and mismanagement. Waqf and the Waqf Act The term waqf refers to the permanent dedication of any movable or immovable property for religious or charitable purposes as recognised by Muslim law. Once declared waqf, the ownership of property is considered transferred to Allah and becomes irrevocable. A mutawalli is appointed to manage the property, and any other use or sale is prohibited. The principle—“Once“ a waqf, always a waqf”—has” created several complex legal scenarios and disputes across India. There is a Central Waqf Board and several state boards. It is to be noted that there is no waqf system in Islamic countries like Turkey, Libya, Jordan, Tunisia, and Egypt, but the waqf network in India is extensive and legally protected. Over the years, there have been many concerns like misuse of power by mutawallis, poor maintenance of property accounts, weak coordination with revenue departments, encroachments, and sweeping authority granted to boards to claim properties. The Waqf Act was first passed by Parliament in 1954. It was later repealed, and a new Waqf Act was passed in 1995, which gave more powers to the Waqf Boards. In 2013, the Act was further amended to grant the Waqf Board extensive powers to designate property as ‘Waqf Property’. The Waqf Amendment Bill On August 8, 2024, the government introduced two bills—the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024—aimed at streamlining the functioning of Waqf Boards and improving the management of waqf properties. The amendment seeks to fix gaps in the Waqf Act, 1995, by renaming the Act, updating the definition of waqf, improving registration processes, and integrating technology for better recordkeeping. In September 2024, the Ministry of Minority Affairs shared that 40,951 cases were currently pending in Waqf Tribunals, including 9,942 filed by members of the Muslim community against institutions managing waqf. Moreover, besides the delays in case disposal, there was no judicial oversight over tribunal decisions. The bill was referred to a joint parliamentary committee (JPC), headed by Jagdambika Pal, which submitted its 655-page report to both Houses of Parliament. Also read | ‘Better to split up Bangladesh than…’: Northeast leader’s response to Yunus remark The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, also called the ‘Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Bill’, aims to address key challenges by introducing reforms like digitisation, enhanced audits, improved transparency, and legal mechanisms to reclaim illegally occupied properties. Waqf Boards are third largest landowners in India Waqf boards currently control 8.7 lakh properties spread across 9.4 lakh acres, with an estimated value of ₹1.2 lakh crore. The Boards are also the country’s biggest landowners after the Armed Forces and Indian Railways. Of the 8.7 lakh waqf assets, 356,051 are registered as waqf estates, 872,328 are immovable properties, and 16,713 are movable properties. Despite this, the Boards generate negligible income. ‘Waqf properties could yield ₹12,000 crore annually’: Sachar panel The Sachar Committee, which submitted its report in 2006, observed that if the waqf properties are put to efficient and marketable use, they can generate at least a minimum revenue of 10% which is about ₹12,000 crores per annum. It also recommended various measures to improve the management of waqf, like regulating the functioning of mutawallis, inclusion of non-Muslim technical expertise in management, and of two women members in Central Waqf Board and each State Waqf Board, etc. Major disputes, claims by Waqf Boards The systemic issues and flaws in waqf property governance have resulted in several cases across India. In one such case, one Rajagopal, a farmer in Tamil Nadu’s Thiruchenthurai village, was unable to sell his agricultural land to repay a loan after the Waqf Board laid claim to the entire village. The sale required a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the board, leading to both financial and emotional distress. Records indicate the village was donated as waqf by Nawab Anwardeen Khan in 1956. The situation worsened when the board requested the registration department to assign a ‘zero value’ to all waqf properties. The Ministry of Minority Affairs intervened and stayed the request to allow property transactions. Also Read | Why is Rahul Gandhi opposing offshore mining? Economic benefits vs politics In another controversy in Bengaluru, the Waqf Board claimed the Eidgah ground as waqf property, but government records showed there had been no official title transfer to any Muslim organisation. In Surat, the Waqf Board staked claim to the Municipal Corporation building, arguing it had historically functioned as a sarai for pilgrims in the Mughal era. The property later came under British control and was eventually transferred to the Indian government after independence, but the Gujarat Waqf Board reiterated its legal position with the statement: “Once a Waqf, always a Waqf.” In an even more unusual claim in Devbhoomi Dwarka, the Waqf Board attempted to assert ownership over two islands in Bet Dwarka. The Gujarat High Court was perplexed by the petition and asked the Board to revise it. The judge questioned how the Waqf could claim ‘land in Krishnanagri’. What is the opposition’s stand? The opposition has strongly criticised the bill, calling it ‘unconstitutional’ and accusing BJP of trying to ‘snatch’ the rights of Muslims. Congress attacked the BJP-led Union government, alleging it was taking the country towards civil war. Also Read | Nepal making a U-turn? Ex-Maoist guerrilla leads fight for return of monarchy, Hindu nation AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi says the bill is unconstitutional and a violation of Articles 14, 25, 26 and 29 of the Indian Constitution. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has opposed the bill and accused the BJP of ‘interfering’ in everything to gain control. Meanwhile, Rijiju asserts that the bill is designed to give rights to those who previously lacked them.

Waqf Bill to be tabled in Lok Sabha April 2. Why is opposition against it, what is the row?

Muslims in various cities across India wore black armbands while offering namaz on the occasion of &lsquo;Alvida Jumma&rsquo;, the last Friday of the holy month of Ramzan. Several people were seen wearing black armbands while offering prayers in Lucknow, Hyderabad, and other cities. The donning of black armbands was in adherence to the call for a silent protest by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). The AIMPLB had urged Muslims across the nation to wear black armbands during the namaz on &lsquo;Alvida Jumma&rsquo;, also referred to as &lsquo;Alvida namaz&rsquo;, as a peaceful protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024.&nbsp; In a post on X, AIMPLB said, &ldquo;It is the responsibility of every Muslim in the country to strongly oppose this bill (Waqf Amendment Bill 2025). The All India Muslim Personal Law Board appeals to all Muslims to wear a black armband while coming to the mosque on Jumu&rsquo;atul Wida as a silent and peaceful expression of grief and protest.&rdquo;&nbsp; The AIMPLB further said that the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 was &ldquo;a sinister conspiracy aimed at depriving Muslims of their mosques, eidgahs, madrasas, dargahs, khanqahs, graveyards, and charitable institutions.&rdquo;&nbsp;
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An Important Appeal to the Muslims of India Wear a Black Armband on Jumu&rsquo;atul Wida to Protest against Waqf Amendment Bill 2024.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAgainstWaqfBill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAgainstWaqfBill</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RejectWaqfBill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RejectWaqfBill</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SayNoToWaqfBill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SayNoToWaqfBill</a> <a href="https://t.co/auwKL9quxi">pic.twitter.com/auwKL9quxi</a>
&mdash; All India Muslim Personal Law Board (@AIMPLB_Official) <a href="https://twitter.com/AIMPLB_Official/status/1905337312445432018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
 It further added, &ldquo;The strong protests by Muslims at Jantar Mantar in Delhi and Dharna Sthal in Patna have at least caused a stir among BJP&rsquo;s allied parties. Now, a massive protest is also scheduled to take place in Vijayawada on March 29, 2025.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yeshu-yeshu-pastor-found-guilty-in-2018-sexual-harassment-case-by-punjab-court-8900478">&lsquo;Yeshu Yeshu pastor&rsquo; found guilty in 2018 sexual harassment case by Punjab court</a> &nbsp; AIMPLB general secretary Maulana Mohammed Fazlur Rahim Mujaddidi issued a video appeal via its X handle in which he urged people to wear a black armband on their right hand when they go for prayers.&nbsp; He urged Muslims to put a black armband on their right hand and share a video of it while also sending it to the online desk of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).
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BIG ANNOUNCEMENT ⭕ वक्फ़ संशोधन बिल के खिलाफ मुस्लिम पर्सनल लॉ बोर्ड का बड़ा ऐलान! रमज़ान के इस आख़री जुमा, जुमातुल विदा को मुसलमान यह काम ज़रूर करें...👇🏻 This Ramazan's Jumma Tul Wida Let us Protest against Waqf Amendment Bill by this method 👇🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAgainstWaqfBill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAgainstWaqfBill</a>&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/FPFC0XSZbk">pic.twitter.com/FPFC0XSZbk</a>
&mdash; All India Muslim Personal Law Board (@AIMPLB_Official) <a href="https://twitter.com/AIMPLB_Official/status/1905207873795494016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
 The 1995 Waqf Act, which governs Waqf properties, has faced criticism regarding property mismanagement, corruption, and unauthorised occupations. The proposed amendments introduce a series of changes designed to modernise the Waqf system. Among the key provisions are stricter regulations governing the registration and monitoring of Waqf properties.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-heckled-during-oxford-university-speech-questioned-on-rg-rape-murder-case-8899764" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Mamata Banerjee heckled during Oxford University speech, questioned on RG rape-murder case</a>
In Hyderabad, AIMIM chief and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi, who is also part of the JPC on the Waqf bill, joined in the symbolic protest wearing a black armband while offering prayers.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Hyderabad | AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi wears 'black band' on his arm supporting the call given by All India Muslim Personal Law Board in protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill <a href="https://t.co/TKPXB4ZTaU">pic.twitter.com/TKPXB4ZTaU</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1905520237904065009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
 The AIMPLB&rsquo;s 31-member Action Committee has resolved to adopt all constitutional, legal, and democratic means to oppose the &ldquo;controversial, discriminatory, and damaging&rdquo; bill. The ruling BJP says that the legislation aims to benefit the disadvantaged Muslims while alleging that the 1995 Waqf Act brought by the then Congress government is repressive and regressive and discriminates against the disadvantaged sections of the Muslim community. The Waqf Amendment Bill will empower underprivileged sections of the Muslim community, it says.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/self-styled-punjab-pastor-bajinder-singh-assaults-woman-holding-baby-other-staffers-video-goes-viral-8882756" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Self-styled Punjab pastor Bajinder Singh assaults woman with baby, other staffers; video goes viral</a>
The Tamil Nadu Assembly adopted a resolution on Thursday opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024. Chief Minister MK Stalin said in the assembly that the bill discriminates against Muslims. &ldquo;The central government is inserting schemes that are against state rights, culture, and tradition. In India, various cultures, traditions, and languages are present, but they are doing it with the intention of taking revenge on the states. The Waqf (Amendment) bill is against Muslims.&rdquo;&nbsp;

India News: Several people were seen wearing black armbands while offering prayers in Lucknow, Hyderabad, and other cities in adherence to the call for a silent protest by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).

Muslims in various cities across India wore black armbands while offering namaz on the occasion of ‘Alvida Jumma’, the last Friday of the holy month of Ramzan. Several people were seen wearing black armbands while offering prayers in Lucknow, Hyderabad, and other cities. The donning of black armbands was in adherence to the call for a silent protest by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). The AIMPLB had urged Muslims across the nation to wear black armbands during the namaz on ‘Alvida Jumma’, also referred to as ‘Alvida namaz’, as a peaceful protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024. In a post on X, AIMPLB said, “It is the responsibility of every Muslim in the country to strongly oppose this bill (Waqf Amendment Bill 2025). The All India Muslim Personal Law Board appeals to all Muslims to wear a black armband while coming to the mosque on Jumu’atul Wida as a silent and peaceful expression of grief and protest.” The AIMPLB further said that the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 was “a sinister conspiracy aimed at depriving Muslims of their mosques, eidgahs, madrasas, dargahs, khanqahs, graveyards, and charitable institutions.” An Important Appeal to the Muslims of India Wear a Black Armband on Jumu’atul Wida to Protest against Waqf Amendment Bill 2024.#IndiaAgainstWaqfBill#RejectWaqfBill #SayNoToWaqfBill pic.twitter.com/auwKL9quxi — All India Muslim Personal Law Board (@AIMPLB_Official) March 27, 2025 It further added, “The strong protests by Muslims at Jantar Mantar in Delhi and Dharna Sthal in Patna have at least caused a stir among BJP’s allied parties. Now, a massive protest is also scheduled to take place in Vijayawada on March 29, 2025.” Also Read | ‘Yeshu Yeshu pastor’ found guilty in 2018 sexual harassment case by Punjab court AIMPLB general secretary Maulana Mohammed Fazlur Rahim Mujaddidi issued a video appeal via its X handle in which he urged people to wear a black armband on their right hand when they go for prayers. He urged Muslims to put a black armband on their right hand and share a video of it while also sending it to the online desk of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). BIG ANNOUNCEMENT ⭕ वक्फ़ संशोधन बिल के खिलाफ मुस्लिम पर्सनल लॉ बोर्ड का बड़ा ऐलान! रमज़ान के इस आख़री जुमा, जुमातुल विदा को मुसलमान यह काम ज़रूर करें...👇🏻 This Ramazan's Jumma Tul Wida Let us Protest against Waqf Amendment Bill by this method 👇🏻#IndiaAgainstWaqfBill… pic.twitter.com/FPFC0XSZbk — All India Muslim Personal Law Board (@AIMPLB_Official) March 27, 2025 The 1995 Waqf Act, which governs Waqf properties, has faced criticism regarding property mismanagement, corruption, and unauthorised occupations. The proposed amendments introduce a series of changes designed to modernise the Waqf system. Among the key provisions are stricter regulations governing the registration and monitoring of Waqf properties. Also read | Mamata Banerjee heckled during Oxford University speech, questioned on RG rape-murder case In Hyderabad, AIMIM chief and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi, who is also part of the JPC on the Waqf bill, joined in the symbolic protest wearing a black armband while offering prayers. #WATCH | Hyderabad | AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi wears 'black band' on his arm supporting the call given by All India Muslim Personal Law Board in protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill pic.twitter.com/TKPXB4ZTaU — ANI (@ANI) March 28, 2025 The AIMPLB’s 31-member Action Committee has resolved to adopt all constitutional, legal, and democratic means to oppose the “controversial, discriminatory, and damaging” bill. The ruling BJP says that the legislation aims to benefit the disadvantaged Muslims while alleging that the 1995 Waqf Act brought by the then Congress government is repressive and regressive and discriminates against the disadvantaged sections of the Muslim community. The Waqf Amendment Bill will empower underprivileged sections of the Muslim community, it says. Also Read | Self-styled Punjab pastor Bajinder Singh assaults woman with baby, other staffers; video goes viral The Tamil Nadu Assembly adopted a resolution on Thursday opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024. Chief Minister MK Stalin said in the assembly that the bill discriminates against Muslims. “The central government is inserting schemes that are against state rights, culture, and tradition. In India, various cultures, traditions, and languages are present, but they are doing it with the intention of taking revenge on the states. The Waqf (Amendment) bill is against Muslims.”

Why are Muslims in India wearing black armbands during Alvida namaz?

The Union Cabinet has approved the revised Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, incorporating 14 amendments proposed by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). Watch this report for more details!

Union Cabinet approves revised Waqf Bill with changes suggested by JPC

Sixteen key bills are set to be tabled in Parliament's Budget session, which kicks off on Friday (Jan 31). These bills include the Finance Bill 2025, amendments to the Waqf Act and Banking Regulations Act, and a proposal to merge the Indian Railways Act and the Indian Railways Board Act.&nbsp;
Following the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, the Indian government is reportedly focusing on ensuring the smooth passage of the Immigration and Foreigners Bill. The legislation is expected to introduce stricter measures for immigration control, enhance border security, and empower authorities to take decisive action against illegal migrants.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will table the Economic Survey ahead of the presentation of the Union Budget on Saturday (Feb 1).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-session-begins-tomorrow-in-parliament-president-murmu-to-address-both-houses-8676213">Budget Session begins tomorrow, President Murmu to address both Houses of Parliament</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Others bills</h2>
The other Bills included in the priority list for legislative business for the budget session include the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 to disaster preparedness and response mechanisms, the Finance Bill, 2025, which is crucial for implementing fiscal policies outlined in the Union Budget and the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025.
Bills looking to safeguard financial interests related to the aviation sector and change current regulations relating to immigration and the entry of foreigners are also expected this session.
In this session, Finance Minister Sitharaman will present an eighth union budget - leaving her just two behind the record of 10 set by Morarji Desai.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-prime-ministers-who-presented-union-budget-8675171">Union Budget 2025: Prime Ministers who presented Union Budget</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Waqf (Amendment) Bill</h2>
The bill proposing 44 changes to Waqf laws - the way Muslim charitable properties are managed in this country - was presented in Parliament in August last year.
The controversial bill triggered furious protests from the opposition as soon as it was tabled and referred to a joint committee led by BJP MP Jagadambika Pal. The JPC - which held nearly three dozen sittings, but was rocked by chaos and protests from outnumbered opposition members, who said their concerns were being ignored - presented its report this week.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/list-of-finance-ministers-who-have-presented-the-union-budget-from-1947-to-2025-8675173">List of finance ministers who presented the Union Budget from 1947 to 2025</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">What is an Economic Survey?</h2>
The Economic Survey document, prepared by the Economic Division of the Department of Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Finance and formulated under the supervision of the chief economic adviser, gives insights into the state of the economy and various indicators of 2024-25 (April-March) and some outlook for the next fiscal.
The Economy Survey document may also give some idea about the tone and texture of the actual Budget for 2025-26, to be presented on Saturday.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: Sixteen crucial bills, including the pivotal Finance Bill, are set to be introduced in Parliament's upcoming Budget session starting Friday, marking significant legislative activity.

Sixteen key bills are set to be tabled in Parliament's Budget session, which kicks off on Friday (Jan 31). These bills include the Finance Bill 2025, amendments to the Waqf Act and Banking Regulations Act, and a proposal to merge the Indian Railways Act and the Indian Railways Board Act. Following the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, the Indian government is reportedly focusing on ensuring the smooth passage of the Immigration and Foreigners Bill. The legislation is expected to introduce stricter measures for immigration control, enhance border security, and empower authorities to take decisive action against illegal migrants. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will table the Economic Survey ahead of the presentation of the Union Budget on Saturday (Feb 1). Also read | Budget Session begins tomorrow, President Murmu to address both Houses of Parliament Others bills The other Bills included in the priority list for legislative business for the budget session include the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 to disaster preparedness and response mechanisms, the Finance Bill, 2025, which is crucial for implementing fiscal policies outlined in the Union Budget and the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025. Bills looking to safeguard financial interests related to the aviation sector and change current regulations relating to immigration and the entry of foreigners are also expected this session. In this session, Finance Minister Sitharaman will present an eighth union budget - leaving her just two behind the record of 10 set by Morarji Desai. Also read | Union Budget 2025: Prime Ministers who presented Union Budget Waqf (Amendment) Bill The bill proposing 44 changes to Waqf laws - the way Muslim charitable properties are managed in this country - was presented in Parliament in August last year. The controversial bill triggered furious protests from the opposition as soon as it was tabled and referred to a joint committee led by BJP MP Jagadambika Pal. The JPC - which held nearly three dozen sittings, but was rocked by chaos and protests from outnumbered opposition members, who said their concerns were being ignored - presented its report this week. Also read | List of finance ministers who presented the Union Budget from 1947 to 2025 What is an Economic Survey? The Economic Survey document, prepared by the Economic Division of the Department of Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Finance and formulated under the supervision of the chief economic adviser, gives insights into the state of the economy and various indicators of 2024-25 (April-March) and some outlook for the next fiscal. The Economy Survey document may also give some idea about the tone and texture of the actual Budget for 2025-26, to be presented on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Centre to introduce 16 bills including Waqf Amendment Act during Budget session

The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) approved the Waqf Amendment Bill on Monday, introducing 14 changes to the proposed draft. The bill, which aims to reform the management of Muslim charitable properties, was initially tabled in August last year.
<h2>Opposition amendments rejected &nbsp;</h2>
Out of 66 proposed amendments, only those from BJP members were accepted. The opposition's suggestions were rejected. The committee, led by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, has 16 members from the BJP or its allies and 10 from opposition parties.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-elelctions-2025-aap-chief-arvind-kejriwal-releases-party-manifesto-for-upcoming-polls-8657270">Delhi assembly elections 2025: Kejriwal releases AAP manifesto, promises 15 &lsquo;guarantees&rsquo;</a>
Pal said, "...44 amendments were discussed. In detailed discussions (spread) over six months, we sought amendments from all members. This was our final meeting... 14 were accepted by the committee on the basis of a majority (vote). Opposition also suggested amendments... each was put to a vote. There were 10 votes supporting theirs (suggested amendments) and 16 votes opposing it..."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | After the meeting of the JPC on Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, its Chairman BJP MP Jagdambika Pal says, "...44 amendments were discussed. After detailed discussions over the course of 6 months, we sought amendments from all members. This was our final meeting... So, 14&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/LEcFXr8ENP">pic.twitter.com/LEcFXr8ENP</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1883792113693036625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<h2>Tensions in the meeting</h2>
The meeting saw a heated exchange as opposition MPs accused the chairman of ignoring their input. Opposition MPs, including Kalyan Banerjee and Asaduddin Owaisi, were suspended for disrupting the proceedings.
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahakumbh-2025-over-130-million-pilgrims-take-holy-dip-so-far-8656573"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahakumbh-2025-over-130-million-pilgrims-take-holy-dip-so-far-8656573">Mahakumbh 2025: Over 130 million pilgrims take holy dip so far</a>
<h2>Opposition's allegations</h2>
Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee called the process a &ldquo;farce,&rdquo; claiming that opposition members were silenced. He alleged an &ldquo;undeclared emergency&rdquo; in the committee's functioning.&nbsp;
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-modi-dhankhar-laugh-after-indonesias-subianto-says-he-has-indian-dna-8656857"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-modi-dhankhar-laugh-after-indonesias-subianto-says-he-has-indian-dna-8656857">Watch | Modi, Dhankhar in splits after Indonesia's Subianto says he has 'Indian DNA'</a>
<h2>Chairman&rsquo;s response</h2>
Jagdambika Pal denied the allegations, asserting that the process was democratic and reflected the majority's decision.&nbsp;
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-foreign-secretary-arrives-in-china-for-two-day-visit-talks-expected-on-lac-situation-8657240"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-foreign-secretary-arrives-in-china-for-two-day-visit-talks-expected-on-lac-situation-8657240">Indian foreign secretary arrives in China for two-day visit; talks expected on LAC situation</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Out of 66 proposed amendments, only those from the ruling BJP were accepted. The opposition's suggestions were rejected. The committee, led by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, has 16 members from the BJP and allies and 10 from opposition parties.

The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) approved the Waqf Amendment Bill on Monday, introducing 14 changes to the proposed draft. The bill, which aims to reform the management of Muslim charitable properties, was initially tabled in August last year. Opposition amendments rejected Out of 66 proposed amendments, only those from BJP members were accepted. The opposition's suggestions were rejected. The committee, led by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, has 16 members from the BJP or its allies and 10 from opposition parties. Also Read | Delhi assembly elections 2025: Kejriwal releases AAP manifesto, promises 15 ‘guarantees’ Pal said, "...44 amendments were discussed. In detailed discussions (spread) over six months, we sought amendments from all members. This was our final meeting... 14 were accepted by the committee on the basis of a majority (vote). Opposition also suggested amendments... each was put to a vote. There were 10 votes supporting theirs (suggested amendments) and 16 votes opposing it..." #WATCH | After the meeting of the JPC on Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, its Chairman BJP MP Jagdambika Pal says, "...44 amendments were discussed. After detailed discussions over the course of 6 months, we sought amendments from all members. This was our final meeting... So, 14… pic.twitter.com/LEcFXr8ENP — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2025 Tensions in the meeting The meeting saw a heated exchange as opposition MPs accused the chairman of ignoring their input. Opposition MPs, including Kalyan Banerjee and Asaduddin Owaisi, were suspended for disrupting the proceedings. Also Read | Mahakumbh 2025: Over 130 million pilgrims take holy dip so far Opposition's allegations Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee called the process a “farce,” claiming that opposition members were silenced. He alleged an “undeclared emergency” in the committee's functioning. Also Read | Watch | Modi, Dhankhar in splits after Indonesia's Subianto says he has 'Indian DNA' Chairman’s response Jagdambika Pal denied the allegations, asserting that the process was democratic and reflected the majority's decision. Also Read | Indian foreign secretary arrives in China for two-day visit; talks expected on LAC situation (With inputs from agencies)

India: Joint Parliamentary Committee clears Waqf Amendment Bill amid opposition uproar

All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) chief&nbsp;Badruddin Ajmal&nbsp;on Wednesday (Oct 16) sparked a controversy claiming that the Parliament building and the areas surrounding it in the national capital of Delhi are built on Waqf property.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Ajmal claimed that the area around&nbsp;Vasant Vihar&nbsp;in the national capital up to the&nbsp;airport&nbsp;has been built on Waqf property.

"There are voices and a list of Waqf properties across the world is out - the Parliament building, surrounding areas, and areas around&nbsp;Vasant Vihar&nbsp;up to the&nbsp;airport&nbsp;have been built on Waqf property. People also say that the&nbsp;airport&nbsp;has been built on Waqf property," the AIUDF said.

"It is bad to use the Waqf land without permission. They will lose their ministry very soon over this Waqf Board issue," he added.

Meanwhile, the opposition MPs have written a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on gross violation of the parliamentary code of conduct during the meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024.

The opposition MPs in the letter alleged numerous violations of the&nbsp;parliamentary code of conduct and rules of procedure by Committee Chairperson Jagdambika Pal during the Committee meeting held on October 14 in New Delhi.

In a letter to Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla, the opposition MPs stated: "The proceedings of the Committee were conducted in a biased and partisan manner by the Chairperson Jagdambika Pal. The invitation extended to Anwar Manippady to depose evidence before the Committee by the Chairperson is not within the scope and ambit of the Committee."

The opposition MPs also claimed that a note titled to be a presentation on the "Waqf Bill 2012 based on Karnataka Waqf Scam Report 2012" contained no observations on the Waqf Bill rather only politically motivated allegations against leaders of the Karnataka Congress including Mallikarjun Kharge.

According to the MPs, Manippady deviated from the agenda of the meeting and made a series of allegations against the Karnataka government and levelled allegations against Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. The opposition MPs said that the allegations were irrelevant and unacceptable.

"At the beginning of his remarks, Manippady circulated a note titled "Presentation on the&nbsp;Waqf Amendment Bill&nbsp;2012 based on Karnataka Waqf Scam Report 2012" to the committee members. The note contained no observations on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024,"&nbsp;read the letter.

"Instead, it was full of politically motivated allegations against leaders of the Karnataka Congress, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition (Rajya Sabha). Despite vehement protests by several committee members that Kharge occupies a constitutional position of high dignity and is not present in the meeting, the witness was allowed to speak by the Chairperson. Further, he refused to provide adequate time to committee members to lodge their protests," it added.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;WAQF (Amendment) bill sent to joint parliamentary committee | What is WAQF?

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&nbsp;

The opposition MPs in the letter also stated that the Members of the Committee were deprived of their fundamental right to voice their concerns and thoughts in a space which is expected to operate with the highest alignment to democratic values.

"We believe that it is imperative to inform you of the situation, as it not only involves an insult to the Leader of Opposition, Rajya Sabha, but paves a way for a marked departure from the spirit of bipartisanship and dignity expected from a parliamentary committee," read the letter.

"We request your immediate intervention in the matter, and expect you to remind the Chairperson of the Committee of his duty to be bipartisan and uphold&nbsp;parliamentary norms. It will be very difficult for Members of Parliament across party lines to continue working on the Joint Parliamentary Committee in the current partisan and politically motivated environment,"&nbsp;it&nbsp;further stated.

The Joint Parliamentary Committee meeting on the Waqf Bill at Parliament Annexe, witnessed a heated exchange between ruling party MPs and opposition MPs, leading to an intense debate and the opposition MPs staging a walkout of the meeting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-what-is-waqf-board-and-why-does-the-indian-government-want-to-curb-its-powers-747223">Also read |&nbsp;Explained: What is Waqf Board and why does the Indian government want to curb its powers?</a>

However, opposition MPs, who previously walked out on Tuesday alleging the use of abusive language from a BJP MP and biased behaviour returned to participate in the meeting again. The opposition MPs who had walked out of the meeting earlier in the day also alleged that the chairman of the committee, Jagdambika Pal, was being biased on many issues and not giving instructions to BJP/NDA MPs.

The opposition MPs had earlier on Monday also walked out of the JPC meeting on Waqf Bill over allegations made by Anwar Manippady, former Chairman of the Karnataka State Minorities Commission and the Karnataka Minorities Development Corporation.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) chief Badruddin Ajmal on Wednesday (Oct 16) sparked a controversy claiming that the Parliament building and the areas surrounding it in the national capital of Delhi are built on Waqf property.

All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) chief Badruddin Ajmal on Wednesday (Oct 16) sparked a controversy claiming that the Parliament building and the areas surrounding it in the national capital of Delhi are built on Waqf property. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Ajmal claimed that the area around Vasant Vihar in the national capital up to the airport has been built on Waqf property. "There are voices and a list of Waqf properties across the world is out - the Parliament building, surrounding areas, and areas around Vasant Vihar up to the airport have been built on Waqf property. People also say that the airport has been built on Waqf property," the AIUDF said. "It is bad to use the Waqf land without permission. They will lose their ministry very soon over this Waqf Board issue," he added. Meanwhile, the opposition MPs have written a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on gross violation of the parliamentary code of conduct during the meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024. The opposition MPs in the letter alleged numerous violations of the parliamentary code of conduct and rules of procedure by Committee Chairperson Jagdambika Pal during the Committee meeting held on October 14 in New Delhi. In a letter to Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla, the opposition MPs stated: "The proceedings of the Committee were conducted in a biased and partisan manner by the Chairperson Jagdambika Pal. The invitation extended to Anwar Manippady to depose evidence before the Committee by the Chairperson is not within the scope and ambit of the Committee." The opposition MPs also claimed that a note titled to be a presentation on the "Waqf Bill 2012 based on Karnataka Waqf Scam Report 2012" contained no observations on the Waqf Bill rather only politically motivated allegations against leaders of the Karnataka Congress including Mallikarjun Kharge. According to the MPs, Manippady deviated from the agenda of the meeting and made a series of allegations against the Karnataka government and levelled allegations against Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. The opposition MPs said that the allegations were irrelevant and unacceptable. "At the beginning of his remarks, Manippady circulated a note titled "Presentation on the Waqf Amendment Bill 2012 based on Karnataka Waqf Scam Report 2012" to the committee members. The note contained no observations on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024," read the letter. "Instead, it was full of politically motivated allegations against leaders of the Karnataka Congress, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition (Rajya Sabha). Despite vehement protests by several committee members that Kharge occupies a constitutional position of high dignity and is not present in the meeting, the witness was allowed to speak by the Chairperson. Further, he refused to provide adequate time to committee members to lodge their protests," it added. Watch | WAQF (Amendment) bill sent to joint parliamentary committee | What is WAQF? × The opposition MPs in the letter also stated that the Members of the Committee were deprived of their fundamental right to voice their concerns and thoughts in a space which is expected to operate with the highest alignment to democratic values. "We believe that it is imperative to inform you of the situation, as it not only involves an insult to the Leader of Opposition, Rajya Sabha, but paves a way for a marked departure from the spirit of bipartisanship and dignity expected from a parliamentary committee," read the letter. "We request your immediate intervention in the matter, and expect you to remind the Chairperson of the Committee of his duty to be bipartisan and uphold parliamentary norms. It will be very difficult for Members of Parliament across party lines to continue working on the Joint Parliamentary Committee in the current partisan and politically motivated environment," it further stated. The Joint Parliamentary Committee meeting on the Waqf Bill at Parliament Annexe, witnessed a heated exchange between ruling party MPs and opposition MPs, leading to an intense debate and the opposition MPs staging a walkout of the meeting. Also read | Explained: What is Waqf Board and why does the Indian government want to curb its powers? However, opposition MPs, who previously walked out on Tuesday alleging the use of abusive language from a BJP MP and biased behaviour returned to participate in the meeting again. The opposition MPs who had walked out of the meeting earlier in the day also alleged that the chairman of the committee, Jagdambika Pal, was being biased on many issues and not giving instructions to BJP/NDA MPs. The opposition MPs had earlier on Monday also walked out of the JPC meeting on Waqf Bill over allegations made by Anwar Manippady, former Chairman of the Karnataka State Minorities Commission and the Karnataka Minorities Development Corporation. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian Parliament built on Waqf land, claims AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal

A video is doing the rounds on social media claiming that Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi fell asleep in Parliament on Thursday (Aug 8) while a discussion was underway&nbsp;on the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha

The viral video showed Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju discussing the legislation as Gandhi allegedly fell asleep on his seat.

<h3>Here's a look at the viral video:</h3>

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Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> are you sleeping on such an important debate. 
 
Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCIndia</a> you chose a immature LOP and now people are suffering because he is busy in personal work. 
 
How our senior leader are working for the people of Bharat especially when a bill introduced for minorities… <a href="https://t.co/iE0fkQFHhc">pic.twitter.com/iE0fkQFHhc</a>
— Sumit Joshi (@iSumitjoshi) <a href="https://twitter.com/iSumitjoshi/status/1821471168076853435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Videos and photographs also showed Minority Affairs Minister Rijiju and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Lok Sabha MP&nbsp;Giriraj Singh allegedly mocking Gandhi for falling asleep.

<h2>Was Gandhi sleeping in Lok Sabha?</h2>

Though an opposition Lok Sabha leader certainly fell asleep which led to Rijiju and Singh laughing, it is not yet known if the sleeping parliamentarian was indeed Gandhi, a report by the Free Press Journal said.

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अब जो नया सेंट्रल वक्फ काउंसिल और स्टेट वक्फ बोर्ड होगा इसमें मुस्लिम महिलाओं का रिप्रेजेंटेशन अनिवार्य हो गया है: माननीय केंद्रिय मंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KirenRijiju</a> जी<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Parliament?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Parliament</a> <a href="https://t.co/1kXJB2W5tO">pic.twitter.com/1kXJB2W5tO</a>
— Office of Kiren Rijiju (@RijijuOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/RijijuOffice/status/1821501846281740378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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As Rijiju was speaking on the&nbsp;Waqf Amendment Bill, several BJP MPs including Giriraj Singh,&nbsp;Bhupendra Yadav and Jitendra Singh, started laughing and pointed out the opposition MP who fell asleep.

"That's why I tell you not to speak in between or not to try and interrupt repeatedly as it will make you fall asleep," Rijiju said

<h2>Did Gandhi doze off in 2016 too?</h2>

A similar situation was seen in Lok Sabha in 2016 when Gandhi allegedly dozed off when his party the Congress was cornering the Modi government&nbsp;over the crucial issue of Dalit protests in Gujarat.

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WATCH: Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury's clarification on Rahul Gandhi appearing to be dozing off in Lok Sabha.<a href="https://t.co/BdhqvGwG1U">https://t.co/BdhqvGwG1U</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/755691557412450304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2016</a></blockquote>
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Amid a heated war of words between BJP MPs and opposition MPs,&nbsp;television cameras panned to show Gandhi, then vice-president of the Congress,&nbsp;sitting with his hands on his forehead and his eyes shut.

Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury provided a clarification that Gandhi was not sleeping during the discussion on Dalit protests in Gujarat.

"He was not sleeping. Can anyone sleep with such loud noise," Chowdhury told the news agency ANI and pointed out that Gandhi was just resting his eyes.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A video is doing the rounds on social media claiming that Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi fell asleep in Parliament on Thursday (Aug 8) while a discussion was underway on the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha The viral video showed Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju discussing the legislation as Gandhi allegedly fell asleep on his seat.

A video is doing the rounds on social media claiming that Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi fell asleep in Parliament on Thursday (Aug 8) while a discussion was underway on the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha The viral video showed Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju discussing the legislation as Gandhi allegedly fell asleep on his seat. Here's a look at the viral video: Hey @RahulGandhi are you sleeping on such an important debate. Hey @INCIndia you chose a immature LOP and now people are suffering because he is busy in personal work. How our senior leader are working for the people of Bharat especially when a bill introduced for minorities… pic.twitter.com/iE0fkQFHhc — Sumit Joshi (@iSumitjoshi) August 8, 2024 × Videos and photographs also showed Minority Affairs Minister Rijiju and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Lok Sabha MP Giriraj Singh allegedly mocking Gandhi for falling asleep. Was Gandhi sleeping in Lok Sabha? Though an opposition Lok Sabha leader certainly fell asleep which led to Rijiju and Singh laughing, it is not yet known if the sleeping parliamentarian was indeed Gandhi, a report by the Free Press Journal said. अब जो नया सेंट्रल वक्फ काउंसिल और स्टेट वक्फ बोर्ड होगा इसमें मुस्लिम महिलाओं का रिप्रेजेंटेशन अनिवार्य हो गया है: माननीय केंद्रिय मंत्री श्री @KirenRijiju जी#Parliament pic.twitter.com/1kXJB2W5tO — Office of Kiren Rijiju (@RijijuOffice) August 8, 2024 × As Rijiju was speaking on the Waqf Amendment Bill, several BJP MPs including Giriraj Singh, Bhupendra Yadav and Jitendra Singh, started laughing and pointed out the opposition MP who fell asleep. "That's why I tell you not to speak in between or not to try and interrupt repeatedly as it will make you fall asleep," Rijiju said Did Gandhi doze off in 2016 too? A similar situation was seen in Lok Sabha in 2016 when Gandhi allegedly dozed off when his party the Congress was cornering the Modi government over the crucial issue of Dalit protests in Gujarat. WATCH: Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury's clarification on Rahul Gandhi appearing to be dozing off in Lok Sabha.https://t.co/BdhqvGwG1U — ANI (@ANI) July 20, 2016 × Amid a heated war of words between BJP MPs and opposition MPs, television cameras panned to show Gandhi, then vice-president of the Congress, sitting with his hands on his forehead and his eyes shut. Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury provided a clarification that Gandhi was not sleeping during the discussion on Dalit protests in Gujarat. "He was not sleeping. Can anyone sleep with such loud noise," Chowdhury told the news agency ANI and pointed out that Gandhi was just resting his eyes. (With inputs from agencies)

Video claims Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi fell asleep in Parliament during Waqf bill discussion

Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday (Aug 8) introduced in the Indian parliament The Waqf (Amendment) Bill and The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024 which seeks to kick-start reforms in Waqf boards.

Among the amendments introduced is one that mandates two women members on the Waqf board panel.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:118,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1804}">Salient features of the proposed amendments</h2>

In total, 44 amendments have been introduced to alter the structure of the Waqf Act of 1995. Meanwhile, the Waqf Act 1923 will be revoked, reports PTI.&nbsp;

Key changes include renaming the Waqf Act 1995 as the 'Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:262,&quot;w&quot;:430,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1948}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kiren-rijiju-moves-waqf-amendment-bill-in-lok-sabha-748318">India: Kiren Rijiju moves Waqf Amendment Bill in Lok Sabha</a>

Among the salient features of the proposed amendments are the registration of Waqf property through a central portal and the protection of the Bohra community.

Replacing Section 40 of the existing Waqf Board Act, the Amendment bill also proposes stripping the Board of its power to declare any property as "Waqf property".

For the sake of 'inclusivity',&nbsp;the proposed amendments seek to ensure women's representation on the Central Waqf Council and state boards.

Additionally, changes have been included for adequate representation of all Muslim communities, including Shia, Sunni, Bohra, Aghakhani, and other backward classes.&nbsp;

For Bohras and Aghakhanis, a separate Board of Auqaf has been recommended.

Rijiju dismissed all the allegations of opposition related to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, saying that the BJP-led government will fight for the rights of those who never got justice.

“Forget about snatching anybody’s right. We in this bill are trying to bring justice for those who never got justice, and we will fight for their rights.&nbsp;The amendment to the Bill has not happened for the first time ever.&nbsp;Since independence, it has&nbsp;been amended multiple times,” he said.

“They (Opposition) are misleading Muslims…Till last night, Muslim delegations came to me…Many MPs have told me that the mafia has taken over Waqf boards. Some MPs have said that they personally support the bill but can’t say it due to their political parties…We have held multi-layered country-wide consultations on this bill…,” he further said.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:529,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2215}">Opposition calls amendments 'draconian'</h2>

Opposition parties have raised strong objections to the amendments. Congress leader KC Venugopal called the bill an "attack on the constitution".

"I would like to raise an objection to this draconian law introduced by the government. Fundamentally, this is an attack on the Constitution," Venugopal said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nirmala-sitharaman-says-burden-on-middle-class-narrative-not-based-on-facts-clarifies-real-estate-taxes-748144">Nirmala Sitharaman says burden on middle class narrative ‘not based on facts’; clarifies real estate taxes</a>

The Congress MP argued that the Bill violated Article 26 of the Constitution. Article 26 grants the citizens of India the right to form and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes, manage religious affairs, and administer property according to the law.

"Through this Bill, they (the Centre) are putting a provision that non-Muslims can also be members of the governing council. Can anyone imagine a non-Hindu being part of the Supreme Court-constituted Ayodhya Board? This provision directly attacks the faith and freedom of religion," Venugopal asserted.

He also expressed concerns that the BJP-NDA government might target other communities.

"Now you are going after Muslims. Next you will go for Christians, and then Jains."

However, Rijiju slammed the opposition for "misleading" Muslims and said that the current law had many mistakes and had hence not been able to serve its purpose.

(With inputs from agencies)

Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday (Aug 8) introduced in the Indian parliament The Waqf (Amendment) Bill and The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024 which seeks to kick-start reforms in Waqf boards.

Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday (Aug 8) introduced in the Indian parliament The Waqf (Amendment) Bill and The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024 which seeks to kick-start reforms in Waqf boards. Among the amendments introduced is one that mandates two women members on the Waqf board panel. Salient features of the proposed amendments In total, 44 amendments have been introduced to alter the structure of the Waqf Act of 1995. Meanwhile, the Waqf Act 1923 will be revoked, reports PTI. Key changes include renaming the Waqf Act 1995 as the 'Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995'. Also read | India: Kiren Rijiju moves Waqf Amendment Bill in Lok Sabha Among the salient features of the proposed amendments are the registration of Waqf property through a central portal and the protection of the Bohra community. Replacing Section 40 of the existing Waqf Board Act, the Amendment bill also proposes stripping the Board of its power to declare any property as "Waqf property". For the sake of 'inclusivity', the proposed amendments seek to ensure women's representation on the Central Waqf Council and state boards. Additionally, changes have been included for adequate representation of all Muslim communities, including Shia, Sunni, Bohra, Aghakhani, and other backward classes. For Bohras and Aghakhanis, a separate Board of Auqaf has been recommended. Rijiju dismissed all the allegations of opposition related to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, saying that the BJP-led government will fight for the rights of those who never got justice. “Forget about snatching anybody’s right. We in this bill are trying to bring justice for those who never got justice, and we will fight for their rights. The amendment to the Bill has not happened for the first time ever. Since independence, it has been amended multiple times,” he said. “They (Opposition) are misleading Muslims…Till last night, Muslim delegations came to me…Many MPs have told me that the mafia has taken over Waqf boards. Some MPs have said that they personally support the bill but can’t say it due to their political parties…We have held multi-layered country-wide consultations on this bill…,” he further said. Opposition calls amendments 'draconian' Opposition parties have raised strong objections to the amendments. Congress leader KC Venugopal called the bill an "attack on the constitution". "I would like to raise an objection to this draconian law introduced by the government. Fundamentally, this is an attack on the Constitution," Venugopal said. Also read | Nirmala Sitharaman says burden on middle class narrative ‘not based on facts’; clarifies real estate taxes The Congress MP argued that the Bill violated Article 26 of the Constitution. Article 26 grants the citizens of India the right to form and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes, manage religious affairs, and administer property according to the law. "Through this Bill, they (the Centre) are putting a provision that non-Muslims can also be members of the governing council. Can anyone imagine a non-Hindu being part of the Supreme Court-constituted Ayodhya Board? This provision directly attacks the faith and freedom of religion," Venugopal asserted. He also expressed concerns that the BJP-NDA government might target other communities. "Now you are going after Muslims. Next you will go for Christians, and then Jains." However, Rijiju slammed the opposition for "misleading" Muslims and said that the current law had many mistakes and had hence not been able to serve its purpose. (With inputs from agencies)

India Parliament monsoon session: BJP government introduces amendments to Waqf Act

Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Thursday (Aug 8) moved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha. The Congress opposed the Bill, saying it was against the Constitution.

The bill proposes amendments to the Waqf Act, 1995, aiming to "effectively" address issues concerning the powers of State Waqf Boards, the Central Waqf Council, the registration and survey of Waqf properties, and the removal of encroachments.

<h2>Attack on Religious Freedom</h2>

The opposition parties in the INDIA bloc, including the Congress, Samajwadi Party (SP), DMK and NCP (SCP), opposed the bill.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-drama-in-rajya-sabha-as-chairman-schools-tmc-mp-for-creating-ruckus-over-vinesh-phogat-disqualification-748313">Rajya Sabha chairman schools TMC MP for creating ruckus over Phogat issue</a>

Supriya Sule of the NCP (SCP) requested Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to either withdraw the bill or send it for scrutiny to a House committee.&nbsp;

"We are Hindus, but we also respect the faiths of other religions. This bill is specifically aimed at the Maharashtra and Haryana elections. You don't realise that the people of India taught you a lesson last time. This is an attack on the federal system," said Congress MP KC Venugopal in the Lower House.

Rajiv Ranjan of the Janata Dal (United) replied to Venugopal's remarks by stating that the bill aims to introduce transparency in Waqf Board management and does not target any specific religion.

“How is it against Muslims? This law is being made to bring transparency...The opposition is comparing it with temples, they are diverting from the main issue. KC Venugopal (Congress) should explain how thousands of Sikhs were killed…which taxi driver killed Indira Gandhi? Now, they are talking about minorities,” Lallan Singh said.&nbsp;

SP chief Akhilesh Yadav slammed the Waqf Bill and said, “I have heard in the lobby that this government is snatching your rights also. We will fight for you.”

Responding to this, Union Home Minister Amit Shah hit out saying, “Speaker's rights are not just yours but of the entire house. You are not any Rights Custodian.”

While, AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi said, “This bill violates the principles of Articles 14, 15 and 25 of the Constitution. This bill is both discriminatory and arbitrary...By bringing this bill, you (the Central govt) are doing the work of dividing the nation not uniting it. This bill is evidence of the fact that you are an enemy of the Muslims.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Thursday (Aug 8) moved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha. The Congress opposed the Bill, saying it was against the Constitution.

Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Thursday (Aug 8) moved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha. The Congress opposed the Bill, saying it was against the Constitution. The bill proposes amendments to the Waqf Act, 1995, aiming to "effectively" address issues concerning the powers of State Waqf Boards, the Central Waqf Council, the registration and survey of Waqf properties, and the removal of encroachments. Attack on Religious Freedom The opposition parties in the INDIA bloc, including the Congress, Samajwadi Party (SP), DMK and NCP (SCP), opposed the bill. Also read: Rajya Sabha chairman schools TMC MP for creating ruckus over Phogat issue Supriya Sule of the NCP (SCP) requested Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to either withdraw the bill or send it for scrutiny to a House committee. "We are Hindus, but we also respect the faiths of other religions. This bill is specifically aimed at the Maharashtra and Haryana elections. You don't realise that the people of India taught you a lesson last time. This is an attack on the federal system," said Congress MP KC Venugopal in the Lower House. Rajiv Ranjan of the Janata Dal (United) replied to Venugopal's remarks by stating that the bill aims to introduce transparency in Waqf Board management and does not target any specific religion. “How is it against Muslims? This law is being made to bring transparency...The opposition is comparing it with temples, they are diverting from the main issue. KC Venugopal (Congress) should explain how thousands of Sikhs were killed…which taxi driver killed Indira Gandhi? Now, they are talking about minorities,” Lallan Singh said. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav slammed the Waqf Bill and said, “I have heard in the lobby that this government is snatching your rights also. We will fight for you.” Responding to this, Union Home Minister Amit Shah hit out saying, “Speaker's rights are not just yours but of the entire house. You are not any Rights Custodian.” While, AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi said, “This bill violates the principles of Articles 14, 15 and 25 of the Constitution. This bill is both discriminatory and arbitrary...By bringing this bill, you (the Central govt) are doing the work of dividing the nation not uniting it. This bill is evidence of the fact that you are an enemy of the Muslims.” (With inputs from agencies)

India: Kiren Rijiju moves Waqf Amendment Bill in Lok Sabha