Commotions and uproars caused by opposition parties notwithstanding, in a historic move, the Rajya Sabha passed the Waqf Amendment Bill after a marathon 13-hour-long debate concluding in the wee hours of Friday. The upper house adjourned post-vote and is scheduled to reconvene at 11 today. 

The Bill, aimed at reforming the management of Waqf properties, secured 128 votes for and 95 against in the Rajya Sabha, following its earlier passage in the Lok Sabha on Thursday with 288 members supporting and 232 opposing it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Bill’s passage as a “watershed moment” in India’s pursuit of social and economic justice. In a post on X, Modi expressed gratitude to parliamentarians for their support, stating, "Gratitude to all Members of Parliament who participated in the Parliamentary and Committee discussions, voiced their perspectives and contributed to the strengthening of these legislations. A special thanks also to the countless people who sent their valuable inputs to the Parliamentary committee. Yet again, the importance of extensive debate and dialogue has been reaffirmed."

With the new amendment to the Bill, he said, "We will now enter an era where the framework will be more modern and sensitive to social justice. On a larger note, we remain committed to prioritising the dignity of every citizen. This is also how we build a stronger, more inclusive and more compassionate India."

Pointing out that for decades, the Waqf system was synonymous with lack of transparency and accountability. This especially harmed the interests of Muslim women, poor Muslims, Pasmanda Muslims. The legislations passed by Parliament will boost transparency and also safeguard people’s rights, he said,

“The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill by both Houses of Parliament marks a watershed moment in our collective quest for socio-economic justice, transparency and inclusive growth. This will particularly help those who have long remained on the margins, thus being denied both voice and opportunity.” 

The Waqf Amendment Bill seeks to reform and refine the governance of Waqf properties, by introducing measures to enhance transparency and coordination between Waqf boards and local authorities. Key provisions include safeguarding heritage sites, promoting social welfare, and protecting stakeholders’ rights. A significant focus is on uplifting the socio-economic status of Muslim women, particularly widows and divorcees, through inclusive policies. The amendment also mandates broader representation on Waqf boards, incorporating diverse Muslim sects to ensure equitable decision-making.

During the fiery debate in the Rajya Sabha, which underscored the bill’s contentious nature, Rijiju said the Waqf Board is a statutory body and, as such, like all government bodies, it should be secular. He said the inclusion of a few non-Muslims on the Waqf Boar would not alter the decisions of the body and instead add value to them. "The Waqf Board is a statutory body. All government bodies should be secular," the minister said, justifying the inclusion of non-Muslims on the Board.

Nonetheless, its passage in both houses reflects a strong parliamentary push toward reform. Modi’s administration views this as a cornerstone of its agenda to foster inclusive development while preserving cultural heritage.