Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, April 4, lauded the passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill and Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill by both Houses of Parliament as a "watershed moment." He said it would help those who "denied both voice and opportunity." The Prime Minister, on the visit to Thailand and Sri Lanka, 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."
PM Modi thanked members of House who voiced their perspectives and contributed to strengthening the legislation. "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," he said.
Also Read | Parliament Passes Waqf Amendment Bill: Two JDU Leaders Resign Over Party's Support.
The Prime Minister strongly criticized the previous state of the Waqf system, saying it had a "lack of transparency and accountability." "This especially harmed the interests of Muslim women, poor Muslims, and Pasmanda Muslims. The legislations passed by Parliament will boost transparency and also safeguard people’s rights," he added in a post on X.
"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," the Prime Minister added.
The bill was passed after a marathon debate in both houses of parliament, while the Rajya Sabha discussion lasted over 12 hours, with the Waqf (Amendment) Bill getting 128 votes in favor and 95 against. The Waqf bill drew strong protest by the Opposition, Congress-led INDIA alliance and Muslim MPs, including two JDU leaders, who later resigned from the party for supporting its alliance partner NDA. The bill is now waiting with the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, to clear it and make it an Act.