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2d ago

Centre Defends Waqf Amendment Act in Supreme Court Against Constitutional Challenges

The government argues the law regulates secular aspects of waqf management, denies infringement of religious freedoms, and opposes interim court orders.

The Supreme Court of India is hearing the Waqf Amendment Act case
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Overview

  • The Union government submitted a 1,332-page affidavit to the Supreme Court, seeking dismissal of petitions challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025.
  • The Centre maintains the amendments focus on procedural and administrative reforms, such as record-keeping, and do not interfere with religious freedoms under Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution.
  • It clarified that 'waqf-by-user' properties remain protected if registered by April 8, 2025, and mandatory registration has been a consistent requirement for over a century.
  • The government defended the inclusion of non-Muslims in waqf bodies, stating this enhances transparency and inclusivity without undermining Muslim representation.
  • The Kerala State Waqf Board separately petitioned the Court, alleging that the Parliamentary Committee ignored its inputs during the drafting process.