Politics

The Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, early Thursday after a 12-hour debate. The bill, which aims to reform Waqf property management, was approved with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. Key provisions include strengthening Waqf tribunals, reducing mandatory contributions to Waqf boards, and introducing audits for larger institutions. The bill also restores pre-2013 rules, empowers women with inheritance rights, and introduces non-Muslim members to Waqf boards for inclusivity. While the ruling NDA defended the bill as a necessary reform, the opposition strongly criticized it, calling it an attack on minority rights and India's secular framework. The debate highlighted deep divisions, with opposition leaders warning of increased litigation and social divisions. Despite opposition resistance, the bill was passed, signaling a significant shift in the management of Waqf properties in India.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has dismissed claims made by Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut that Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed his retirement plans and succession with RSS leaders during his visit to Nagpur. Fadnavis refuted Raut’s allegations, asserting that there was no such discussion and reaffirmed that Modi would continue as Prime Minister through 2029. BJP legislator Atul Bhatkhalkar also criticized Raut for attempting to stir controversy, suggesting he focus on leadership issues within his own party. This comes amid repeated opposition predictions about Modi’s retirement, all of which have been consistently rejected by the BJP.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Patna on Saturday for a two-day visit to energize the BJP and its NDA allies ahead of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. During his stay, Shah met with BJP leaders, including Union ministers, MPs, and state officials, focusing on securing 225 seats for the NDA in the upcoming polls. His visit also included public events in Patna and Gopalganj, where he announced initiatives worth Rs 903 crore and highlighted the importance of grassroots mobilization. Shah’s visit is seen as the unofficial start of the NDA’s election campaign.

AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi has strongly criticized the BJP-led government over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, accusing it of attempting to seize waqf properties. Owaisi labeled the bill as the "Looters (Amendment) Law" and questioned the removal of key officials involved in waqf property management. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, however, defended the bill, asserting that it aligns with the Constitution and does not infringe on Muslims' rights. The debate continues to escalate, with both leaders firmly standing by their positions.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has expelled former Union Minister Basanagouda Patil Yatnal for six years, citing repeated indiscipline. The decision, announced by the party's Central Disciplinary Committee, follows several instances of Yatnal disregarding party rules despite prior warnings. Yatnal, in response, accused the party of penalizing him for his criticism of dynasty politics and corruption, particularly targeting BJP leaders in Karnataka. He vowed to continue his fight for North Karnataka's development and against corruption, despite the expulsion.