President Murmu gives assent to Waqf Amendment Bill 2025

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, April 6, 2025: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday gave her assent to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, days after both Houses of Parliament passed the contentious legislation. The bill, which sparked intense debate in both Houses, has now officially become law following its publication in the government gazette.

Along with the Waqf Amendment Bill, the President also approved the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025, thereby repealing the Mussalman Wakf Act of 1923.

“The following Act of Parliament received the assent of the President on April 5, 2025, and is hereby published for general information: The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025,” a government notification stated.

The Rajya Sabha had cleared the Waqf Amendment Bill on Friday after a heated 13-hour-long debate. The session saw sharp criticism from opposition parties, which described the bill as “anti-Muslim” and “unconstitutional.” However, the government defended the legislation as a “historic reform” aimed at benefiting the minority community and bringing greater transparency and accountability in Waqf property management.

The bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 votes in favour and 95 against. A day earlier, the Lok Sabha had cleared it with 288 members voting in support and 232 opposing it.

The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill was also approved by both Houses of Parliament, with the Rajya Sabha giving its final nod on Friday. Following the President’s assent, the nearly century-old Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923, now stands officially repealed.