“Stronger, inclusive, and sensitive India”: Modi Hails Passage of Waqf (Amendment) Bill , But Critics Raise Concerns

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday praised the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Musalman Waqf (Repeal) Bill, calling it a "historic moment" for India. In a statement following the legislation’s passage, Modi emphasised that the bills would especially benefit marginalised communities, particularly Muslims, by improving transparency within the Waqf system—a system of charitable endowments traditionally controlled by Islamic institutions. He pointed to long-standing issues with accountability in the management of Waqf assets, claiming that this often harmed disadvantaged groups, especially women and the poor within the Muslim community.

“The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Musalman Waqf (Repeal) Bill by both houses of Parliament is a historic moment for the country. It brings to the forefront our collective commitment to social-economic justice, transparency, and inclusive development. This will be particularly beneficial for those who have long been marginalised, whose voices have gone unheard, and who have been deprived of opportunities”, posted the Prime Minister on ‘X’

The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Members of Parliament (MPs) for their participation in the debates, noting that extensive discussions during parliamentary sessions and committee reviews helped refine the final version of the bills. He also acknowledged the input from "countless people" who provided suggestions to the parliamentary committees, emphasising the importance of dialogue and debate in the democratic process. 

The Indian Parliament has passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, along with the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, despite fierce criticism from opposition parties. The legislation cleared the Lok Sabha with 288 votes in favour and 232 against after a debate stretching over 12 hours, and later passed the Rajya Sabha with 128 votes in favour and 95 against following a marathon 17-hour session that concluded in the early hours of Friday.

“For decades, a lack of transparency and accountability was evident in the Waqf system. This was primarily causing significant harm to the interests of our Muslim mothers and sisters, the poor, and the marginalised Muslim brothers and sisters. Now, the bill passed by Parliament will not only enhance transparency but also prove helpful in protecting people’s rights”, PM Modi added. 

However, while the government's stance on the Waqf reforms focuses on addressing perceived administrative inefficiencies, the bills have not been without controversy. Critics argue that the changes may not adequately address the deeper systemic issues of marginalisation or discrimination faced by the Muslim community, and some have raised concerns about potential overreach in terms of state control over Waqf institutions. Opposition parties have termed the bill a ploy to further ‘institutionalise’ divisive politics and hatred towards the muslim community. Congress called it an attempt to ‘disenfranchise’ the muslim community. 

“Along with this, we will enter an era that will not only be in tune with the present times but also committed to social justice. We are determined to ensure that the dignity of every citizen of the country is given priority. This path is going to be very significant in building a stronger, more inclusive, and sensitive India”, PM Modi concluded.