During his visit to Thailand for the BIMSTEC Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill by both Houses of Parliament as a crucial step toward socio-economic justice, transparency, and inclusive development. In a tweet, he emphasized that this legislation would particularly benefit those who have long been marginalized and deprived of opportunities.

This bill represents the second major legal reform affecting the Muslim community under the BJP-led government, following the abolition of the practice of triple talaq in 2019.

Aimed at Supporting Pasmanda Muslims

PM Modi’s remarks align with the BJP’s stance that the Waqf Bill is a necessary reform designed to empower underprivileged Muslims. The party argues that many within the community, especially the economically disadvantaged, have had little say in its affairs.

Highlighting concerns over the historical lack of transparency in the Waqf system, Modi stated that for decades, poor Muslims, Muslim women, and Pasmanda Muslims had suffered due to the opaque management of Waqf properties. He asserted that the new legislation would introduce greater accountability while protecting people’s rights.

Pasmanda Muslims, among the most socially and economically disadvantaged within the community, have recently been a focus of BJP’s outreach efforts. PM Modi reiterated that the bill, once signed into law by the President, would bring modernization and ensure a system that upholds social justice.

“We are dedicated to upholding the dignity of every citizen. This is how we create a more just, inclusive, and compassionate India,” he stated.

Key Provisions of the Waqf Bill

The bill mandates the inclusion of up to four non-Muslim members in the Waqf Council, with at least two being women. Additionally, senior government officials above the rank of district collectors will have the authority to determine whether a property qualifies as Waqf land or belongs to the government.