Lok Sabha to Discuss Waqf (Amendment) Bill on Wednesday, Promising Clash Between Govt and Opposition

The Lok Sabha is set to discuss and potentially pass the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill on Wednesday, a move that is expected to spark a fierce debate between the Narendra Modi-led government and the Opposition's INDIA bloc.

Minorities and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju confirmed earlier today that the business advisory committee (BAC) of the Lok Sabha, which includes leaders from all major political parties and is chaired by Speaker Om Birla, has agreed to allocate eight hours for the discussion.

Opposition Seeks More Debate Time on Waqf Bill as Lok Sabha Prepares for Discussion

Congress' Deputy Leader in the Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, has accused the government of ignoring the opposition's concerns, asserting that the opposition parties are seeking more time to debate the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill. Gogoi also emphasized that the opposition wants the House to address additional critical issues, such as the situation in Manipur and the controversy surrounding electors' photo identity cards, as reported by PTI.

In response, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, clarified that while several parties had requested a debate duration of four to six hours, the opposition had pushed for 12 hours of discussion. Rijiju added that the eight-hour debate time allocated could be extended if the House deems it necessary on the day.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha in August, aims to amend 40 provisions of the Waqf Act. Among the proposed changes, the bill seeks to ensure representation for Muslim women and non-Muslims on Waqf boards. It also proposes significant reforms in the regulation and governance of India’s Waqf boards, which manage Islamic charitable endowments, according to the Hindustan Times.

Parliament Braces for Heated Debate as Waqf Bill Faces Opposition Scrutiny

New Delhi, April 2, 2025 – The government is pushing for amendments to the Waqf Bill, asserting that the changes will modernize an outdated and complex system in line with the 2006 Rajinder Sachar Committee's recommendations. However, the Opposition has called for greater scrutiny, arguing that the bill could negatively impact Muslim communities.

The bill, which has undergone several amendments, was reviewed by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) before being presented in Parliament during the Budget session. The panel had also recommended renaming it the "Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Act."

Congress, BJP Issue Whips to MPs

Ahead of the bill’s discussion, both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress have issued whips to their MPs, ensuring full attendance in the House. The Congress’ three-line whip directed its Lok Sabha members to remain present from April 2 to 4 for key discussions and to support the party’s stance.

Meanwhile, the BJP issued a similar directive to its MPs, instructing their presence in the Lok Sabha on April 2 and in the Rajya Sabha on April 3.

INDIA Bloc Rallies Against Bill

The Opposition’s INDIA bloc held a strategic meeting in Parliament on Wednesday, uniting against the bill. Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal reaffirmed the alliance’s opposition, stating that the proposed legislation was "targeted" and went against constitutional principles.

"In the introduction stage itself, the INDIA alliance and like-minded parties took a clear stand. This bill is fundamentally against constitutional provisions, and we will oppose it," Venugopal told ANI. He urged other opposition parties to join in voting against the bill.

With both the government and the opposition firm in their stances, a heated debate is expected in Parliament as the bill moves forward.

Opposition, JD(U) Take Divergent Stances as Waqf Bill Debate Intensifies

New Delhi, April 2, 2025 – As the Waqf (Amendment) Bill heads for discussion in Parliament, political parties remain divided, with the Opposition set to challenge it while the Janata Dal (United) has decided to back the government.

Opposition to Participate in Debate

NCP (SCP) MP Supriya Sule affirmed that the Opposition would actively participate in the debate, ensuring their concerns are voiced.

"We will take part in discussions. Just as we will listen to them, we will put forth our truth. We will stand with those who uphold the Constitution. The INDIA alliance had a constructive discussion, and we will debate together," Sule told ANI.

JD(U) Extends Support to Government

Meanwhile, the JD(U) has announced its support for the NDA government on the bill. Party leaders stated that many of their initial concerns had been addressed during the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) review.

"A delegation from the Muslim community met Bihar CM Nitish Kumar to express their concerns after the bill was referred to the JPC. Kumar directed party representatives to raise these issues, and our representative, Dileshwar Kamait, presented them before the committee. We believe these suggestions were considered," JD(U) national spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan said.

With the Opposition gearing up for an intense debate and JD(U) aligning with the government, the stage is set for a charged discussion in Parliament.

Delhi Police Tighten Security as Waqf Bill Sparks Political Tensions

New Delhi, April 2, 2025 – As the Waqf (Amendment) Bill debate intensifies in Parliament, the Delhi Police have stepped up security in sensitive areas across the city to prevent any potential disruptions to law and order.

According to PTI, security measures have been bolstered with increased night patrolling and additional deployments planned.

"To maintain law and order at multiple sensitive areas, we have intensified night patrolling, and additional deployment will be arranged," a senior police officer said on condition of anonymity.

The officer further stated that all Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) have been instructed to maintain a strict vigil and monitor the situation closely.

With political tensions high over the contentious bill, authorities are on alert to ensure peace and security in the capital.