Sat Apr 05 13:32:06 UTC 2025: ## AAP Joins Legal Challenge Against Controversial Waqf Amendment Bill
**New Delhi** – The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has become the third opposition party to challenge the recently passed Waqf Amendment Bill in the Supreme Court. The bill, which awaits presidential assent, has already faced opposition from the Congress and AIMIM, who have also filed legal challenges.
The AAP, represented by MLA Amanatullah Khan, argues the bill is discriminatory and infringes upon the fundamental rights of Muslims. Khan’s plea claims the legislation undermines the religious autonomy of Muslims and their right to manage their own institutions. The government counters that the bill aims to improve transparency and benefit Muslim women.
The bill’s critics, including Congress MP Mohammad Jawed and AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, highlight provisions allowing non-Muslim members on Waqf councils, a feature absent in the governance of other religious institutions. Owaisi has accused the BJP of using its parliamentary majority to “wage war on Muslims.” BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad defended the bill, claiming it will bring transparency and that no mosques or graveyards will be affected.
The Lok Sabha passed the bill with 288 votes in favour and 232 against, followed by its passage in the Rajya Sabha. The bill’s passage has sparked protests in several cities across India. The Supreme Court will now consider the constitutional validity of this contentious legislation.
First Piper 