Waqf Amendment Bill Passed: Modi Government Signals Reform Continuity with NDA Allies On Board:

With the Waqf Amendment Bill now passed by both houses of Parliament, the Narendra Modi-led government has dispelled any doubts about slowing down its reform drive in its third term. The bill’s successful passage also demonstrates the BJP’s ability to work closely with its allies in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), including JD(U) and TDP, who were initially seen as hesitant on issues central to the BJP’s ideological platform.

Initial Concerns Over BJP's Reforms in Third Term

After the June 4 Lok Sabha election results, speculation arose that the BJP, needing support from allies like Nitish Kumar’s JD(U) and Chandrababu Naidu’s TDP (together holding 28 seats), might be forced to slow its reform agenda. These allies had previously voiced reservations over issues such as the Uniform Civil Code, creating doubts about the feasibility of passing the Waqf Bill.

Strategic Outreach Helped Win Ally Support

Behind the scenes, BJP leadership initiated discussions well ahead of the Bill’s introduction. According to reports, senior ministers engaged with the JD(U), TDP, and other allies such as the Lok Janshakti Party and Rashtriya Lok Dal to explain the Bill’s objectives. They emphasized that the proposed changes aimed to protect Muslim interests, particularly those of women and the marginalised, countering the Opposition’s allegations of communal intent.

Allies’ Concerns Addressed Through Amendments

Although generally supportive, the JD(U) and TDP raised concerns regarding:

Protection of existing Waqf properties

Potential encroachment on state powers

Retrospective application of the Bill

Timelines for uploading property data to the Waqf portal

In response, 14 amendments were incorporated by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), many reflecting suggestions from JD(U) and TDP. These changes ensured:

No retrospective application of provisions

Protection for existing religious sites

More autonomy for states in dispute resolution

Extended deadlines for compliance with new documentation norms

Strong Support from NDA Allies in Parliament

During the Bill’s debate, JD(U) leader Lallan Singh openly supported the revised legislation, refuting claims that it targeted any community. TDP representatives also voiced their backing, highlighting the Bill’s focus on safeguarding Muslim women, youth, and disadvantaged groups.

Additional NDA allies such as Lok Janshakti Party, Hindustan Awam Morcha, and Rashtriya Lok Dal echoed similar sentiments, helping secure a smooth passage.

Reforms Agenda Continues with NDA Unity

The passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill with full ally support is being seen as a major win for the Modi government. It not only pushes forward the reforms agenda but also reinforces Prime Minister Modi’s leadership within the NDA. It demonstrates the government’s intent to pursue strategic reforms while successfully accommodating diverse perspectives within its coalition.