BJD Changes Stance On Waqf Amendment Bill, Denies Issuing Whip To Rajya Sabha MPs

The Waqf Amendment Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha with a 288-232 vote early Thursday after an intense 12-hour debate. In the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, stating that it aims to introduce transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the management of Waqf properties.

BJD Adjusts Position on Waqf Amendment Bill

BJD MP Sasmit Patra initially emphasized that his party has always upheld the principles of secularism and inclusivity, ensuring the protection of all communities. He acknowledged the concerns of various sections of the minority communities regarding the bill. However, later in the day, the BJD made a notable shift in its stance, informing its MPs that there was no party whip in the Rajya Sabha for the vote.

Patra reiterated his party's respect for diverse sentiments and stated that Rajya Sabha members were entrusted with the responsibility of voting based on their conscience in the best interest of justice, communal harmony, and the rights of all communities. "The Biju Janata Dal has always upheld the principles of secularism and inclusivity. We deeply respect the diverse sentiments expressed by different sections of the minority communities regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Our Party, having taken these views into careful consideration, has entrusted our Hon'ble Members in the Rajya Sabha with the responsibility of exercising their conscience in the best interest of justice, harmony, and the rights of all communities, should the Bill come up for voting. There is no Party Whip," Patra posted on X.

Lok Sabha Passes Waqf Amendment Bill After Heated Debate

On Wednesday, the Lok Sabha engaged in a marathon discussion before passing the Waqf Amendment Bill. Members of the INDIA bloc strongly opposed the legislation, while the BJP and its allies defended it, asserting that the bill would ensure better transparency and improve the functioning of Waqf boards. The debate extended past midnight before Speaker Om Birla announced the division results: "Subject to correction, Ayes 288, Noes 232. The majority is in favour of the proposal."

The bill was revised based on recommendations from the Joint Parliamentary Committee, which had reviewed the legislation introduced in August last year. The amendments aim to rectify the shortcomings of the 1995 Act, improve the administration of Waqf properties, streamline the registration process, and integrate technology to better manage records.

Government Tables Waqf Bill in Rajya Sabha

Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju presented the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the Rajya Sabha, rejecting the opposition's claims that the legislation infringes on the rights of Muslims. Rijiju clarified that the bill is inclusive and seeks to empower Muslim women while safeguarding the rights of all Muslim sects.

Some opposition MPs in the Upper House staged a protest against the bill, wearing black attire as a symbol of their dissent. Meanwhile, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju also moved the motion for the consideration of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill of 2025 and the Musalmaan Wakf (Repeal) Bill.