TDP, JD(U) Support Waqf Bill; Opposition Mounts Resistance
Parliamentary Proceedings Resume
Both houses of Parliament reconvened on Wednesday at 11 AM to continue legislative business. The Lok Sabha took up the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, for discussion and passage. These bills, introduced to bring reforms to the administration of Waqf properties, have undergone scrutiny by the Joint Parliamentary Committee before being tabled for debate.
Minister Kiren Rijiju Moves Key Bills
Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju presented the two bills for consideration. The proposed amendments aim to streamline Waqf property management, ensuring greater transparency and efficiency. The Rajya Sabha is expected to take up the Waqf (Amendment) Bill for discussion on Thursday, with eight hours allocated for debate in both houses.
NDA Allies Issue Whips for Support
The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has garnered substantial backing for the bill. Key allies, including the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)], Shiv Sena, and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), have issued whips directing their MPs to vote in favor of the government’s stand. With the NDA holding 293 out of 542 seats in the Lok Sabha, the ruling coalition appears poised to secure the bill’s passage with ease.
Allies Align After Addressing Concerns
Initially, some NDA allies, including TDP and JD(U), expressed reservations regarding certain provisions of the bill. However, after the parliamentary committee incorporated some of their recommendations, these parties have shown greater willingness to support the amendments. Official sources indicate that these modifications have addressed key concerns, leading to increased alignment within the NDA.
Opposition Unites Against the Bill
Meanwhile, the opposition INDIA bloc has reinforced its stance against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. Leaders of opposition parties met at the Parliament House on Wednesday to strategize their approach. While the opposition has sought to challenge the bill’s provisions, their numerical disadvantage in the Lok Sabha limits their ability to block its passage effectively.
Legislative Session Continues Till April 4
The ongoing budget session of Parliament, which commenced on March 10, will continue until April 4. This period is crucial for passing several pending legislations, including the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. With political dynamics shaping the course of parliamentary debates, the bill’s journey through both houses will be closely observed.
Conclusion
As the Waqf (Amendment) Bill moves towards final approval, the NDA government remains confident of its passage. While opposition parties continue their efforts to resist the proposed amendments, the strong numbers in favor of the ruling alliance indicate a smooth legislative process. The coming days will determine the ultimate fate of this significant legal reform.