Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 4: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday lauded the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 in Parliament, calling it a “historic step” under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She described the development as the beginning of a new era of justice, transparency, and accountability in the management of Waqf properties.

Speaking on the legislative journey of the Bill, Gupta highlighted the extensive and inclusive approach adopted by the government. “The amendment Bill introduced in 2013 was discussed for five-and-a-half hours, whereas this Bill saw over 16 hours of discussion in both Houses. The Modi government formed a joint committee that held 38 meetings, engaged in 113 hours of dialogue, and included 284 stakeholders,” she said.

She also emphasised the public participation involved in the process, stating that the government received nearly one crore online suggestions from across the country before drafting the law. “This shows how the Modi government stands with the Muslim community, while the Opposition continues to mislead people for vote bank politics,” she remarked.

Gupta further stressed that the Bill would play a key role in ensuring good governance. “It was imperative to make the Waqf Board more accountable. This Bill will prevent the misuse of Waqf properties and ensure their benefits reach the deserving. It marks a milestone in the journey towards transparency and justice for crores,” she said.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was passed in the Rajya Sabha following an intense debate that continued late into Thursday night and concluded in the early hours of Friday. The legislation now awaits the President’s assent to become law.