New Delhi – India’s Parliament on Friday passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hail it as a “watershed moment” in the country’s push for socio-economic justice and transparency.
“The passage of these bills 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,” Modi wrote on social media platform X.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to members of Parliament who participated in discussions and contributed to strengthening the legislation. He also acknowledged public input submitted to the parliamentary committee. “Yet again, the importance of extensive debate and dialogue has been reaffirmed,” he said.
Modi emphasized that for decades, the Waqf system had been plagued by a lack of transparency and accountability, which particularly harmed Muslim women, poor Muslims, and Pasmanda Muslims. “The legislations passed by Parliament will boost transparency and also safeguard people’s rights,” he added.
He asserted that the reforms would modernize the Waqf framework while being sensitive to social justice. “On a larger note, we remain committed to prioritizing the dignity of every citizen. This is also how we build a stronger, more inclusive, and more compassionate India,” Modi said.
The bills cleared the Rajya Sabha in the early hours of Friday after a nearly 14-hour debate, with 128 members voting in favor and 95 against. The Lok Sabha had passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill past midnight on Wednesday following a marathon 12-hour debate. Home Minister Amit Shah assured the Muslim community that the new law does not interfere with religious practices.
