Centre set to introduce amended Waqf Bill in second part of Budget session

New Delhi: The Centre is likely to introduce the amended Waqf bill in the second part of the budget session after being approved by the Union Cabinet last week, sources said. The bill was referred to a joint parliamentary committee in August, following its introduction in the Lok Sabha by minority affairs minister Kiren Rijiju.

Last month, JPC adopted the report on the bill with a majority vote, and all 11 opposition panel members objected to the report and moved dissent notes.

At the last week's meeting, the Cabinet approved the bill and incorporated most of the recommendations made by the panel. All the suggestions made by NDA allies were also included.


In its report, the panel has tried to address concerns over the omission of 'Waqf-by-user' (properties that are treated as Waqf-based on its long-term use for religious or charitable purposes). It also supported the inclusion of a non-Muslim on Waqf boards, which can go up to four members.

The Opposition is likely to oppose the amended bill vehemently.