Paromita Das
New Delhi: The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 in the Lok Sabha after a 12-hour debate has once again exposed the opposition’s misplaced priorities. Instead of engaging in a constructive debate, opposition parties resorted to spreading misinformation and creating unnecessary panic. The absence of Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, raised further questions about the seriousness of the Congress party in addressing legislative matters. His absence at this crucial juncture contradicted his previous claims of being stifled in parliamentary discussions. The opposition was granted 42% of the total time to voice its concerns, yet it failed to engage meaningfully and instead focused on disruptive tactics.
Rahul Gandhi’s Absence: A Political Misstep?
Rahul Gandhi, who was present in Parliament for a meeting with senior party leaders and MPs to discuss Congress’ stance on the amendments before the Waqf Amendment Bill was tabled, left immediately after the meeting. He clearly made the decision to remain absent from the crucial Waqf debate. However, the Congress leader did walk in for the voting, dressed casually in cargos, a white t-shirt, and chappals, and has faced the internet’s fury on his actions.
An ‘X’ user by one username questioned Rahul Gandhi’s absence and said that he wasn’t even fit to be an MP. Calling out the Congress leader for his casual dressing style and giving the Waqf debate a miss, another user by the username said, “Rahul Gandhi’s lazy, entitled demeanor and constant gaffes prove he’s a political liability. India needs leaders with grit, not a dynast stumbling through speeches.”
Rahul Gandhi’s conspicuous absence during the critical discussion on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill speaks volumes about the Congress party’s approach. He had repeatedly claimed that he was not allowed to speak in Parliament, but when the opportunity presented itself, he was missing. As the LoP of the largest opposition party, it was his duty to lead the discussion, counter the government’s arguments, and put forth a well-reasoned opposition. However, his failure to even show up highlights his lack of commitment and strategic vision.
Even among Congress leaders, murmurs of discontent are growing regarding his frequent disappearances during crucial parliamentary debates. His absence weakened the opposition’s stance and allowed the ruling party to push forward with its arguments unchallenged. If the opposition expects to be taken seriously, its leadership must demonstrate accountability and presence during key legislative proceedings.
‘Waqf Amendment Bill Weapon Aimed at Marginalising Muslims’: Rahul Gandhi on X
Rahul Gandhi did not speak and give his opinion on the Waqf Amendment Bill when he was expected to, in the Lok Sabha, but shared a post on social media late at night on Wednesday, calling the bill a “weapon aimed at marginalising Muslims and usurping their personal laws and property rights.”
An X user, who goes by the name of @scribe9104, has called him out for his hypocrisy, saying, “He goes around complaining that he is not around to speak in the parliament, and now when the entire country is debating such an important bill, he delegates it to Gaurav Gogoi and refuses to participate, restricting his stand to a post on twitter.”
Amit Shah’s Strong Rebuttal: Setting the Record Straight
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during the debate, came down heavily on the previous UPA government, particularly for its 2013 amendments to the Waqf laws. He pointed out how these amendments were hurriedly introduced before the 2014 elections with political motivations. One of the most controversial aspects of these changes was the transfer of 123 VVIP properties in Delhi’s Lutyens zone to Waqf authorities.
Shah highlighted that the current Bill aims to rectify the past mistakes, ensuring accountability and preventing financial mismanagement. He argued that the UPA government’s handling of Waqf-related matters was riddled with favoritism and lacked transparency. The new amendments would bring much-needed reforms, making the system more robust and accountable.
Opposition’s Incoherent Arguments and Misinformation
Despite being given ample time to speak, the opposition failed to present a coherent argument against the Bill. Instead, leaders like Asaduddin Owaisi resorted to dramatic protests, including tearing the Bill, claiming it was an attack on Muslims. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi labeled the Bill an “attack” on Parliament and the Constitution but failed to substantiate his claim with legal arguments.
Similarly, Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav and other opposition leaders attempted to paint the Bill as communal. However, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju effectively countered these claims. He pointed out that while the opposition accused the government of targeting Muslims, it was the Congress that created separate boards for Sunni, Shia, and other sects, thereby fostering divisions. Rijiju also emphasized that the Bill does not take away Waqf properties but merely introduces stricter regulations to prevent misuse.
Support for the Bill from Religious and Minority Representatives
Contrary to opposition claims, several prominent minority leaders and organizations expressed their support for the Bill. Syed Naseruddin Chishty, Chairman of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council, dismissed fears that the Bill would lead to the confiscation of religious properties. Instead, he noted that the amendments would help in better management and prevent corruption within Waqf Boards.
National Commission for Minorities (NCM) Chairman Iqbal Singh Lalpura also backed the Bill, calling it beneficial for the Muslim community. He emphasized that the legislation was in the larger interest of transparency and effective governance.
Congress’ Confused Stance and Political Opportunism
Congress’ approach to the Bill further exposed its inconsistency. Senior Congress leader Rashid Alvi declared that the party would revise the Waqf law when it returns to power in 2029. This statement raises an important question: If the current amendments are detrimental, why not offer a concrete counterproposal instead of vague promises for the distant future?
Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera went a step further, claiming that the Bill was “anti-constitutional” and a violation of minority rights. However, these allegations were effectively rebutted by Amit Shah, who provided a detailed historical and legal perspective on Waqf laws.
The Way Forward: Opposition Must Engage Constructively
The events surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 reflect a broader pattern of opposition behavior. Instead of engaging in meaningful legislative work, the opposition has adopted a strategy of disruption and misinformation. The government, on the other hand, has maintained a firm stance on governance reforms and accountability.
The absence of Rahul Gandhi, combined with the opposition’s failure to present coherent arguments, further weakened their case. If the opposition genuinely wants to hold the government accountable, it must step up its game—participate in debates with facts, present alternative solutions, and most importantly, show up when it matters.
The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 marks an important step in ensuring transparency and preventing misuse of Waqf properties. The opposition’s baseless allegations and fear-mongering tactics did little to change the outcome, as the Bill was passed with a significant majority of 288 votes against 232.
Rahul Gandhi’s absence and the opposition’s failure to engage meaningfully in the debate only exposed their lack of seriousness. If opposition parties wish to remain relevant, they must abandon disruptive tactics and instead focus on constructive engagement in Parliament. As Bharat moves forward, it is essential for all political parties to prioritize legislative integrity over political theatrics.
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