Kerala: Muslim League expresses displeasure over Priyanka Gandhi's absence during Waqf Bill debate

Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala): The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has voiced strong dissatisfaction over the absence of Wayanad MP and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi during the Lok Sabha debate on the Waqf Amendment Bill. Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama, through its mouthpiece Suprabhatham, criticised her for not attending the session and labelled her absence a “black mark”.

Editorial questions Congress leaders' silence
In its April 4 editorial, Suprabhatham questioned why Priyanka Gandhi was missing during the crucial discussion and why Rahul Gandhi, the opposition leader, did not speak on a bill they believe affects Muslim rights and national unity. Despite this, the editorial acknowledged the collective stand of Congress, TMC, and the Left against the bill under the INDIA alliance.

Opposition terms bill ‘unconstitutional’
Congress Rajya Sabha MP Syed Naseer Hussain called the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 “unconstitutional and unfair”. He stated that the bill amounted to targeted legislation and said the opposition had united in Parliament to challenge it. “Despite knowing there would be many issues with the bill in the coming days, the government was adamant,” he added.

Bill passed after an intense late-night session
The Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 was passed in Parliament after a marathon and heated debate. Rajya Sabha passed the bill beyond midnight with 128 voting in favour and 95 against. Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announced the result with “Ayes 128 and Noes 95, Absent zero. The Bill is passed.”

Key changes aim to modernise Waqf administration
The government revised the bill after incorporating recommendations from the Joint Parliamentary Committee. It seeks to amend the Waqf Act of 1995 to improve the administration and management of Waqf properties. The bill proposes better registration, enhanced transparency, and increased use of technology in managing Waqf records.

(With ANI Inputs)