PM Modi calls Parliament’s approval of Waqf invoice as a ‘watershed second’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the passage of the Waqf (Modification) Invoice 2025 as a “watershed second” that can deliver socio-economic justice and transparency whereas empowering marginalised communities.

“The passage of the Waqf (Modification) Invoice and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Invoice by each Homes of Parliament marks a significant step in direction of transparency and inclusive development. It will notably profit those that have lengthy been denied voice and alternative,” PM Modi posted on X.

Expressing gratitude to all MPs who helped shape the payments, he emphasised the significance of debate and dialogue within the legislative course of.

“Due to all Members of Parliament who participated in discussions and shared their views. Particular appreciation additionally to those that despatched precious inputs to the Parliamentary committee. As soon as once more, the importance of intensive debate has been reaffirmed,” he added.

The Prime Minister said that the amendments would shield individuals’s rights, addressing the long-standing lack of transparency and accountability within the Waqf system, which had affected Muslim girls and Pasmanda Muslims.

“For many years, the Waqf system lacked transparency and accountability, harming the pursuits of poor Muslims, notably girls and Pasmanda Muslims. These new legal guidelines will enhance transparency and safeguard rights,” he mentioned.

He additionally reaffirmed the federal government’s dedication to social justice and dignity for each citizen.

“We’re getting into an period the place the framework might be extra fashionable and delicate to social justice. Our precedence stays making certain dignity for all residents, constructing a stronger, extra inclusive, and compassionate India,” Modi added.

Opposition criticism

Congress and different opposition events criticised the invoice, with Chief of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge accusing the federal government of taking a “adverse stand.”

“It’s their interpretation. We introduced our views, however they’re pushing their very own agenda,” Kharge advised reporters.

Congress MP Ranjeet Ranjan known as the invoice “unlucky,” alleging that the amendments goal a selected neighborhood.

“This invoice is just not in the most effective pursuits of the nation or the Structure. It’s not about serving to individuals however about focusing on a neighborhood,” Ranjan mentioned.

The invoice’s passage

The Waqf Modification Invoice 2025 was handed in Parliament early Friday morning after a heated debate.

Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar introduced the vote rely: Ayes – 128, Noes – 95, Absent – 0, declaring the invoice handed. The Home sat past midnight to finish the method.

Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the invoice, stating that opposition events have been deceptive individuals.

“This invoice will profit crores of individuals from the Muslim neighborhood,” Rijiju mentioned whereas responding to a 12-hour debate in Rajya Sabha. He additionally introduced that the invoice could be renamed UMEED (Unified Waqf Administration Empowerment Effectivity and Growth) Invoice.

The Lok Sabha had handed the invoice previous midnight on Wednesday after incorporating suggestions from the Joint Parliamentary Committee, which reviewed the laws launched final August.

The invoice seeks to amend the 1995 Waqf Act to enhance the administration and administration of Waqf properties. It goals to beat earlier shortcomings, improve Waqf board effectivity, streamline the registration course of, and combine know-how for higher administration.