Fact Check: Waqf bill is passed in india

The Claim: "Waqf Bill is passed in India"

Introduction

Recently, a claim surfaced stating that India's parliament has passed the Waqf Bill, which aims to amend existing laws governing Muslim land endowments known as waqf. This legislative move has sparked significant debate and controversy, particularly regarding its implications for the management of waqf properties and the inclusion of non-Muslims in decision-making roles.

What We Know

1. Legislative Action: The Waqf (Amendment) Bill was passed by both houses of India's parliament, with the Lok Sabha approving it first, followed by the Rajya Sabha. The Lok Sabha vote was reported as 288 in favor and 232 against, after a lengthy debate 110.

2. Content of the Bill: The bill proposes changes to the governance of waqf properties, including the introduction of non-Muslim members to the boards that manage these properties. It also aims to enhance government oversight in the validation of waqf land 49.

3. Historical Context: Waqf properties have been a significant aspect of Muslim endowments in India, historically governed by the Waqf Act of 1995. The proposed amendments are seen as a shift in how these properties are managed, potentially altering their traditional governance structures 23.

4. Political Reactions: The bill has faced opposition from various political parties and Muslim groups, who argue that it undermines the autonomy of Muslim communities in managing their religious endowments. Supporters, including the ruling BJP, argue that the amendments are necessary for better governance and transparency 4710.

Analysis

Source Evaluation

• BBC News: This source is generally regarded as credible and provides a balanced overview of the situation, detailing both the parliamentary process and the reactions from various stakeholders 1. However, it may have a slight Western bias in its framing of the issue.

• Press Information Bureau (PIB): As an official government source, the PIB provides factual information about the bill's provisions and historical context. However, it may lack critical analysis and could be seen as biased towards the government's narrative 2.

• Associated Press (AP): Known for its journalistic integrity, AP offers a straightforward account of the events surrounding the bill's passage, including political reactions. It is a reliable source for understanding the broader implications of the legislation 4.

• Times of India: This source provides live updates and detailed coverage of the parliamentary proceedings. While it is a widely read publication, it may exhibit bias depending on the editorial stance of the specific articles 6.

• WION News: This outlet presents a perspective that often aligns with the Indian government's views, which may lead to a lack of neutrality in reporting on contentious issues like the Waqf Bill 7.

Methodology and Evidence

The claims surrounding the passage of the Waqf Bill are supported by multiple sources, including government announcements and news reports. However, the methodology behind the reporting varies. For example, while some sources focus on the legislative process, others emphasize the political implications and community reactions. This divergence suggests that readers should consider multiple perspectives to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue.

Conflicts of Interest

Given the political nature of the Waqf Bill, there may be conflicts of interest among various stakeholders. Government sources may promote the bill as a progressive reform, while opposition parties and advocacy groups may frame it as an infringement on minority rights. This polarization highlights the need for careful consideration of the motivations behind different narratives.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The claim that the Waqf Bill has been passed in India is substantiated by multiple credible sources, including official government announcements and reputable news outlets. The legislative action was confirmed by the successful votes in both houses of parliament, with the Lok Sabha voting 288 in favor and 232 against the bill. The content of the bill, which includes significant changes to the governance of waqf properties and the inclusion of non-Muslim members in decision-making roles, has been widely reported and discussed.

However, it is important to acknowledge the contentious nature of this legislation. The passage of the bill has sparked considerable debate, with various political parties and community groups expressing strong opposition, arguing that it undermines the autonomy of Muslim communities. This context is crucial for understanding the implications of the bill beyond its mere passage.

While the evidence supporting the claim is robust, the political landscape surrounding the Waqf Bill introduces complexities that warrant careful consideration. Readers should remain aware of the differing narratives and motivations of various stakeholders involved in this issue.

As always, it is advisable for readers to critically evaluate information and consider multiple perspectives when assessing claims of this nature.

Sources

1. Waqf Bill: India's parliament passes Muslim land bill after ... - BBC [https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwyn87ly1pqo]
2. Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025: The History of Waqf in India [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2118415]
3. THE WAQF (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2025 [https://www.minorityaffairs.gov.in/WriteReadData/RTF1984/1743763149.pdf]
4. Indian parliament passes waqf bill after Rajya Sabha nod | AP News [https://apnews.com/article/india-muslim-endowments-waqf-parliament-4fb3ce70dbd2e579bccc43ce1e245f6d]
5. THE WAQF (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2025 [https://www.minorityaffairs.gov.in/show_content.php?lang=1&level=2&ls_id=936&lid=1163]
6. Waqf Amendment Bill - Times of India [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/parliament-budget-session-live-updates-waqf-amendment-bill-pass-amit-shah-modi-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-bjp-nda-congress/liveblog/119965820.cms]
7. Waqf Amendment Bill passed in Indian parliament. What's changing ... [https://www.wionews.com/india-news/waqf-amendment-bill-passed-in-indian-parliament-whats-changing-highlights-provisions-and-areas-of-controversy-detailed-breakup-8924834]
8. Waqf Amendment Bill LIVE Updates: Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 in Rajya ... [https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/waqf-amendment-bill-live-updates-parliament-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-9919305]
9. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 [https://prsindia.org/billtrack/the-waqf-amendment-bill-2024]
10. Lok Sabha Passes Waqf Bill 288-232 Past Midnight After ... - News18 [https://www.news18.com/india/lok-sabha-passes-waqf-bill-288-232-past-midnight-after-marathon-debate-9284824.html]