Historic: Chairman Dhankhar hails passage of Waqf Bill in Rajya Sabha's longest-ever 17-hour sitting

IANS April 4, 2025 297 views

The Rajya Sabha achieved a historic milestone by conducting its longest-ever 17-hour legislative session to pass the Waqf Amendment Bill. Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar celebrated the unprecedented parliamentary achievement, highlighting the spirit of unity and dialogue among lawmakers. The marathon sitting, which continued well past midnight, demonstrated exceptional legislative commitment and productivity. This session is being viewed as a significant moment in India's democratic parliamentary journey.

"The Rajya Sabha etched its name into the annals of legislative history" - Jagdeep Dhankhar
Historic: Chairman Dhankhar hails passage of Waqf Bill in Rajya Sabha's longest-ever 17-hour sitting
New Delhi, April 4: Rajya Sabha Chairman, Jagdeep Dhankhar, on Friday hailed the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, as a “historic legislation” and called it a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through dialogue and shared purpose.

Key Points

1

Longest Rajya Sabha sitting spans 17 hours past midnight

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Waqf Bill passes with unprecedented legislative unity

3

Session marks significant democratic achievement

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Bill aims to enhance transparency in Waqf property management

Highlighting the 119 per cent productivity of the Upper House during the Budget Session, Dhankhar congratulated the members for joining the “unprecedented” sitting – the longest in its history – for discussion on the Bill, including four hours past midnight.

“The Rajya Sabha etched its name into the annals of legislative history. The sitting began at 11 a.m. on April 3 and continued till 4.02 a.m. the next, that is, this day. The longest in its history,” he said, complimenting members for their 17-hour initiative to debate the legislation.

“This would send a very great message to people at large and enhance belief in this great institution,” he said, as the Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die.

He congratulated members for sitting in the House to pass the transformative Waqf (Amendment) Bill, “bringing about transparency and accountability to Waqf properties and management while modernising legacy systems and upholding principles of equity and justice”.

“The session will be remembered for the historic legislative accomplishments and the spirit of unity that prevailed. It stands as a defining moment in India’s parliamentary journey. A powerful reminder of what can be achieved through dialogue, perseverance and shared purpose,” he said.

Dhankhar said, “The Rajya Sabha has once again set democratic standards worth emulation by others. Our future sittings will see enhancement of these democratic values."

He also recalled the occasion on which the House was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and thanked all members for assistance in conducting the proceedings.

“I acknowledge the diligent efforts of the Secretary General and the staff for having engaged in the smooth functioning of the House, working long hours,” he said.

Earlier, the House was adjourned till 1 p.m., following brief proceedings after start, as the Treasury Bench members shouted slogans against the West Bengal government which was castigated by the Supreme Court over the teachers’ job scam.

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
This is truly historic! 17 hours of debate shows real dedication to democracy. The Waqf reforms were long overdue and it's heartening to see bipartisan support for such important legislation 👏
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Amit S.
While I appreciate the hard work, I wonder if marathon sessions like this are really productive. After 10+ hours, can MPs really be at their best when voting on important bills? Maybe we need to rethink how we structure these debates.
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Rahul M.
Transparency in Waqf management is a game-changer! My grandfather used to complain about mismanagement of local Waqf properties. This bill gives me hope for better governance 🙌
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Sunita P.
The dedication shown by our parliamentarians is inspiring. Working past midnight for the nation's progress - this is the kind of work ethic we need in all sectors!
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Karan D.
Historic indeed! But let's not forget the staff and secretariat who worked behind the scenes to make this marathon session possible. They deserve equal recognition for this achievement.
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Neha T.
The 119% productivity stat is impressive, but I hope this doesn't become the new normal. Quality of debate matters more than quantity of hours. Still, kudos for getting important work done!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Jagdeep Dhankhar Rajya Sabha Waqf Amendment Bill Parliamentary Proceedings Legislative Reform
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