Waqf Bill Debate in Rajya Sabha Sets New Record with 17.02 Hours of Discussion
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Synopsis
The recent debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Rajya Sabha not only set a historic record of over 17 hours but also showcased the strength of democratic dialogue in Parliament. This unprecedented sitting has marked a significant achievement in legislative history.
Key Takeaways
- Waqf Bill debate lasted 17.02 hours.
- New record surpassed previous discussions.
- Rajya Sabha's longest sitting in history.
- Productivity in Budget Session was 119%.
- Legislation hailed as historic by Chairman Dhankhar.
New Delhi, April 6 (NationPress) The extensive and intensive discourse surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Rajya Sabha last week marked not merely another significant milestone in the Parliamentary timeline, but it also established a new standard by registering a record for the lengthiest discussion in the history of the Upper House.
The deliberation on the Waqf Bill 2025 in Rajya Sabha featured unprecedented exchanges and spirited debates, continuing uninterrupted for over 17 hours, eclipsing the previous record set in 1981.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju took to social media on Sunday to highlight the ‘facilitators’ behind the longest discussion ever held in the Rajya Sabha.
On X, Rijiju shared images and remarked: “With MoS Arjun Ram Meghwal, Murugan, Secretary, Adl. Secretary & JS in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs. The discussion on the Waqf Amendment Bill lasted for 17 hours and 2 minutes in Rajya Sabha, breaking the former record of 16 hours and 55 minutes established in 1981!”
April 3, the second last day of the Budget Session, saw the Rajya Sabha experiencing its longest sitting in its history, running from 11:00 a.m. on Thursday until 4:02 a.m. the following day.
Following the Waqf Bill's passage through both houses of Parliament, Rijiju addressed journalists on Friday, branding it a new record in Parliamentary proceedings and a testament to spirited discussion without interruptions.
Just a day prior, the Lok Sabha passed the Bill after a marathon debate lasting 12 hours.
Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar also commended the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, calling it “historic legislation” and a significant reminder of what can be accomplished through dialogue and shared objectives.
Dhankhar congratulated the members of the Upper House for participating in the “unprecedented” session, stating, “The Rajya Sabha has inscribed its name in the chronicles of legislative history.”
“The session commenced at 11 a.m. on April 3 and continued until 4.02 a.m. the next day, marking the longest in its history,” he noted, praising members for their dedication to debating the legislation for 17 hours.
“This will convey a powerful message to the public and bolster faith in this esteemed institution. The Rajya Sabha has once again established democratic standards worthy of emulation by others,” he remarked.
In total, the Rajya Sabha operated for 159 hours during the Budget Session, achieving a productivity rate of 119 percent.
