President assents to Waqf (Amendment) Bill, repeal of Mussalman Wakf Act

NEW DELHI, Apr 5: President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025, following their passage in Parliament earlier this week. The legislation, which aims to reform the management of Waqf properties, has sparked significant controversy and legal challenges.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which passed the Rajya Sabha after a heated 13-hour debate, was approved with 128 votes in favor and 95 against. In the Lok Sabha, it saw 288 votes supporting it and 232 in opposition. Critics, particularly from opposition parties, argue that the Bill is “anti-Muslim” and “unconstitutional,” claiming it imposes undue restrictions on Waqf properties and undermines religious autonomy.

In addition, Parliament also approved the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, which repeals the Mussalman Wakf Act of 1923. This move is seen as part of the government’s broader reform efforts in regulating religious endowments.

Opposition leaders, including Congress MP Mohammad Jawed and AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi, have challenged the Bills in the Supreme Court. They argue that the legislation discriminates against Muslims by imposing conditions not applicable to other religious endowments. Several petitions filed by these leaders and organizations seek to declare the Bills unconstitutional.

The government, however, has defended the reforms as a historic step aimed at benefiting the Muslim community and ensuring better management of religious properties.