Several Ulemas gathered at Handiwala Masjid in the Bhendi Bazaar area of Mumbai on Thursday to denounced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, news agency ANI reported.

The protest was organised by the Raza Academy for exploring the legal avenues to challenge the legislation.

The bill introduces reforms such as strengthening Waqf tribunals, setting fixed tenures for board members, and reducing mandatory contributions from Waqf institutions to boards from 7 per cent to 5 per cent, ANI reported. It also mandates audits for institutions earning over Rs one lakh and establishes a centralised portal for property management.

The Waqf Bill has ignited criticism among the Opposition parties as well as members of the Muslim community. On March 17, the All India Muslim personal Law Board (AIMPLB) had staged demonstrations in New Delhi, demanding the bill's withdrawal.

On Wednesday, the Lok Sabha passed the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 after a marathon and heated debate, during which members of the INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) bloc fiercely opposed the legislation while the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) and its allies strongly supported it, saying it would bring transparency and enhance the efficiency of Waqf boards.

The Lower House of Parliament sat beyond midnight to pass the legislation. Speaker Om Birla later announced the division's result. "Subject to correction, Ayes 288, Noes 232. The majority is in favour of the proposal," he said.

The government introduced the revised bill after incorporating the recommendations of the Joint Parliamentary Committee, which examined the legislation introduced in August last year. The Waqf Bill seeks to amend the Act of 1995 and improve the administration and management of Waqf properties in India.

It aims to overcome the shortcomings of the previous act and enhance the efficiency of Waqf boards, improving the registration process and increasing the role of technology in managing waqf records.

Meanwhile, Union Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Thursday moved a motion for consideration of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill of 2025 and the Musalmaan Wakf (Repeal) Bill in the Rajya Sabha.