Waqf Amendment Bill 2025: Navigating the Numbers in Parliament

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 has been a focal point of recent parliamentary debates in India, sparking intense discussions about its viability and potential impact. The Bill seeks to revamp the management and governance of Waqf properties, aiming to enhance transparency and accountability. The viability of the Bill hinges significantly on whether the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) possesses the requisite numbers to pass it through both houses of Parliament.

Introduction to the Waqf Amendment Bill

The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, is designed to address several concerns regarding the management of Waqf properties. It includes provisions to strengthen Waqf tribunals, reduce the contribution of Waqf institutions to Waqf boards, and implement a centralized portal for managing Waqf properties, thereby increasing operational efficiency and transparency[2][3]. The Bill also proposes to allow non-Muslims to be included on Waqf boards, albeit in limited numbers, to promote inclusivity and governance[3].

NDA's Numerical Advantage in Parliament

In the Lok Sabha, the NDA holds a strong position with 293 members, far exceeding the required majority of 272 votes for passing legislation[5]. The opposition, led by the INDIA bloc, has fewer numbers, totaling about 241 MPs when including non-aligned parties[5].

However, the real challenge lies in the Rajya Sabha, where the numbers are tighter. The NDA has 125 votes, including support from independent and nominated members, while the opposition commands about 95 votes[1][4]. The NDA's advantage is bolstered by the support of several allies and independent members, which proves crucial in achieving the required majority of 119 votes in the Upper House[1][4].

Rajya Sabha Vote and Its Implications

After an intense and lengthy debate, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was passed in the Rajya Sabha with a vote of 128 to 95[2][3]. This outcome underscores the NDA's ability to secure sufficient support in the Upper House, thanks in part to its strategic alliances and the backing of nominated members. The passage in the Rajya Sabha marks a significant step toward the Bill becoming law, as it now awaits presidential assent[3].

Key Provisions of the Waqf Amendment Bill

The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, includes several key provisions aimed at enhancing the governance and management of Waqf properties:

• Strengthening Waqf Tribunals: The Bill proposes a structured selection process and fixed tenure for tribunal members, ensuring efficient dispute resolution.
• Reduction in Mandatory Contributions: The contribution from Waqf institutions to Waqf boards is reduced from 7% to 5%, with stipulated audits for institutions earning over ₹1 lakh[2][3].
• Centralized Portal for Waqf Property Management: This aims to improve operational efficiency and transparency.
• Inclusion of Non-Muslim Members: The Bill allows up to four non-Muslim members on Waqf boards, promoting inclusivity and better governance[3].
• Women's Inheritance Rights: The Bill mandates that women receive their inheritance rights before the declaration of a Waqf, with specific provisions for widows, divorced women, and orphans[2][3].

Debate and Opposition

Despite the provisions aimed at improving governance and inclusivity, the Bill has faced strong opposition. Critics argue that it could lead to increased litigation and interfere with religious activities, although the government has vehemently denied these claims[1][3]. The opposition, including parties like Congress and SP, has accused the government of pursuing communal politics, alleging that the Bill is aimed at electoral gains rather than genuine reform[1][3].

However, the government has maintained that the Bill is necessary to curb corruption in Waqf property management and ensure better governance[1][3]. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasized that the amendments are based on stakeholder suggestions and do not interfere with religious activities[2][3].

Conclusion

The passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, through both houses of Parliament showcases the NDA's ability to garner the necessary support for its legislative initiatives. The Bill's fate now rests on presidential assent, which would transform it into law. The successful navigation of the Bill's passage highlights the NDA's strategic strength in managing alliances and securing votes in crucial legislative debates.

Moreover, the Bill's provisions, if implemented, are expected to bring about significant changes in the management and transparency of Waqf properties, potentially benefiting the Muslim community by improving governance and reducing disputes. However, the ongoing debate reflects deep-seated political and social tensions surrounding religious and economic reforms in India.

Future Impact and Considerations

As the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, moves toward becoming a law, several factors will shape its implementation and impact:

• Implementation Challenges: Ensuring that the provisions, especially those related to audits and centralized management, are effectively implemented will be critical.
• Political Dynamics: The Bill's passage has further polarized political parties, which could have implications for future legislative initiatives.
• Community Response: The reaction from Muslim communities and religious leaders will be crucial, as perceptions of interference in religious affairs could influence community trust in the government's policies.

The journey of the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, underscores the complexities of navigating religious, economic, and political considerations in India's diverse legislative landscape. As the Bill awaits presidential assent, its future impact remains under scrutiny, reflecting broader debates about governance, inclusivity, and communal harmony.