The bill, which passed with 128 votes in favor and 95 against in the Upper House and 288 members in favor and 232 against in the Lok Sabha (Lower House), seeks to optimize the management of Waqf properties, with provisions to safeguard heritage sites and promote social welfare, according to the Government of India.

The legislation also aims to improve governance by increasing transparency in property management, coordination between Waqf Boards and local authorities, and protection of stakeholder rights, according to officials.

Similarly, the Indian government said, it seeks to improve the economic and social situation of Muslim women, particularly widows and divorced.

In response to a debate on the bill, the Minister of Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, affirmed that tens of thousands of poor Muslims will benefit from this legislation, which in no way harms any other believer in Islam.

He assured that the legislation does not interfere with Waqf properties, that it is based on the government’s vision of non-discrimination to any community and that it responds to the Muslim community’s demand.

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