Cabinet Clears Key Changes to Waqf Bill, Tabling Likely on March 10

New Delhi- The Union Cabinet has approved 14 of 23 changes proposed by a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. The amended bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament when the House reconvenes on March 10.

The JPC’s report, submitted on February 13, sparked controversy as opposition MPs alleged their dissent notes had been removed. Following protests, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla intervened, ensuring the notes were included in full.

The committee, dominated by BJP members, approved 14 modifications, including provisions to mandate at least two non-Muslim members in waqf councils and shift the authority to determine waqf properties from district collectors to state-nominated officers. The bill also clarifies that it will not apply retrospectively to already registered properties.

Opposition leaders, including AIMIM’s Asaduddin Owaisi and the Congress’ KC Venugopal, have criticized the amendments, calling them an attack on religious freedom. The bill remains a flashpoint between the BJP and opposition parties ahead of its likely tabling in March.