The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has taken a nuanced stance on the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which has sparked intense debate across India.
In a statement shared via X by BJD national spokesperson and Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra, the party announced that it will not issue a party whip for the bill’s voting in the Rajya Sabha, allowing its members to vote according to their conscience.
This decision comes as the bill, which passed in the Lok Sabha with a 288-232 vote on April 2, 2025, was tabled in the Rajya Sabha by Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on April 3.
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The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, seeks to amend the Waqf Act, 1995, with the stated goal of enhancing transparency and accountability in the management of waqf properties, which are overseen by Waqf Boards—the third-largest landholder in India after the Railways and Defence departments. The bill introduces significant changes, including a requirement that waqf creators must have practiced Islam for at least five years, reversing a 2013 amendment that allowed non-Muslims to dedicate property as waqf. It also empowers state governments to nominate members to Waqf Boards, a shift from the earlier system of elections from Muslim MPs, MLAs, and Bar Council members.
Dr Patra emphasized BJD’s commitment to secularism and inclusivity, stating, “The Biju Janata Dal has always upheld the principles of secularism and inclusivity, ensuring the rights of all communities. We deeply respect the diverse sentiments expressed by different sections of the minority communities regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.” He further noted that the party has entrusted its Rajya Sabha members with the responsibility of voting in the best interest of justice, harmony, and the rights of all communities.
The Biju Janata Dal has always upheld the principles of secularism and inclusivity, ensuring the rights of all communities. We deeply respect the diverse sentiments expressed by different sections of the Minority communities regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Our Party,…
— ଡ଼ଃ ସସ୍ମିତ ପାତ୍ର I Dr. Sasmit Patra (@sasmitpatra) April 3, 2025
The BJD’s decision to forgo a party whip is significant, given its earlier opposition to the bill. On April 2, the party, which holds seven seats in the Rajya Sabha, had expressed its intent to oppose the legislation after its suggestions for amendments were rejected. The bill has been a polarizing issue, with critics arguing that it infringes on religious autonomy, while supporters, including BJP leaders like JP Nadda, assert that it addresses long-standing issues of mismanagement and benefits marginalized Muslim communities, particularly women, by ensuring their property rights.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill has also drawn sharp reactions in the Rajya Sabha. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut accused the government of using the bill to divert attention from pressing issues, while CPIM MP John Brittas questioned the inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf councils, alleging an intent to marginalize Muslims in the management of their own religious properties.
As the debate continues, the BJD’s approach reflects a delicate balancing act—acknowledging the concerns of minority communities while allowing its MPs the freedom to make independent decisions.
With the bill now under scrutiny in the Rajya Sabha, its fate remains uncertain, and the BJD’s stance could influence other regional parties in the upper house.
