New Delhi [India], April 5 – Following the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 by Parliament, senior leaders from the Congress and AIMIM have challenged the legislation in the Supreme Court, calling it unconstitutional and discriminatory.
🧾 What’s the Controversy?
The Bill, aimed at reforming the Waqf Act of 1995, seeks to:
- Improve administration and management of Waqf properties.
- Streamline the registration process of Waqf assets.
- Integrate technology in maintaining Waqf records.
- Incorporate recommendations from the Joint Parliamentary Committee.
However, opposition parties argue the bill unfairly targets Muslim community institutions and was passed despite serious objections during parliamentary debates.
🗣️ What the Opposition is Saying
🔹 Sandeep Dikshit (Congress):
“If the government acts with the intention of division and hatred, we will protest. Now that the bill is passed, the only way left is to go to the Supreme Court — and we have.”
🔹 Syed Naseer Hussain (Congress MP):
“This is targeted legislation. It’s unconstitutional and unfair. Despite knowing the issues, the government forced it through.”
🔹 Asaduddin Owaisi (AIMIM MP):
Filed a petition in the Supreme Court, challenging the Bill and asserting it infringes on minority rights and Waqf autonomy.
📜 Legislative Status:
- ✅ Passed by Lok Sabha
- ✅ Passed by Rajya Sabha
- 🖊️ Awaiting Presidential Assent
⚙️ What Happens Next?
- If the Supreme Court admits the petitions, the bill could be subjected to judicial review.
- If signed by the President, it will become law—unless stayed or overturned by the Court.
Would you like a comparative breakdown of the original Waqf Act (1995) and the 2025 amendments?