Protests erupt in Kolkata against Waqf Amendment Bill
Times of India | 4 April 2025
KOLKATA: Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Kolkata on Friday to voice their opposition to the recently passed Waqf Amendment Bill, which has sparked heated debate across the country.
The protests followed the Friday namaz as people gathered in large numbers, blocking key city roads and shouting slogans against the bill, which was approved in the Rajya Sabha after a lengthy, contentious debate.
The Waqf Amendment Bill was passed in the Upper House with 128 votes in favor and 95 against.
It had earlier been approved in the Lok Sabha, where 288 MPs supported the legislation, while 232 voted against it. The bill now awaits the assent of President Droupadi Murmu to become law.
The bill introduces several significant changes to the management and regulation of Waqf institutions across India. One of the major changes is a reduction in the mandatory contribution of Waqf institutions to the Waqf boards, from 7% to 5%.
The bill also mandates that institutions earning above Rs 1 lakh undergo audits by state-appointed auditors, ensuring greater financial accountability.
To improve transparency and administrative efficiency, the bill proposes the establishment of an automated, centralised portal for managing Waqf properties. This system aims to enhance the overall governance of Waqf institutions.
The bill also reverts to pre-2013 regulations, allowing Muslims who have practiced their faith for a minimum of five years to dedicate their property to the Waqf.
In a significant move to protect women's rights, the legislation includes provisions ensuring that women receive their inheritance before any Waqf declarations are made. Specific protections are included for widows, divorced women, and orphans, ensuring they are not deprived of their inheritance rights.
For properties designated as Waqf, the bill mandates that investigations be carried out by officials holding positions higher than the collector rank. This is intended to ensure thorough scrutiny of such properties and enhance oversight.
While the bill has garnered support for its efforts to enhance transparency and protect women’s rights, it has also faced criticism, especially from those who view it as an infringement on religious autonomy.