Sun Apr 06 10:51:25 UTC 2025: ## Supreme Court Faces Fresh Challenge to Waqf Amendment Act

**New Delhi** – The Supreme Court is facing another legal challenge to the recently enacted Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. A fresh petition, filed by the Samastha Kerala Jamiathul Ulema, a prominent Sunni Muslim organization, argues the Act unconstitutionally infringes on the Muslim community’s right to manage its religious affairs, as guaranteed by Article 26 of the Indian Constitution.

The petition, filed by advocate Zulfiker Ali P S, contends the amendments distort the religious character of Waqfs and undermine the democratic processes within Waqf administration. It further alleges the Act violates federal principles by centralizing power, stripping state governments and Waqf Boards of their authority. The petitioners warn that the Act’s provisions will significantly harm Waqfs and potentially lead to the loss of substantial Waqf properties.

This is not the first legal challenge to the Act. Several petitions have already been filed, including those by Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi, AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan, and the Association for the Protection of Civil Rights. These petitions raise similar concerns about the Act’s alleged discriminatory nature, arbitrary restrictions on Waqf property management, and violation of fundamental rights.

Mr. Jawed’s petition highlights restrictions on Waqf creation based on religious practice duration, while Mr. Owaisi’s argues the Act diminishes protections afforded to Waqfs compared to other religious endowments, constituting discriminatory treatment. Mr. Khan’s plea seeks the Act’s declaration as unconstitutional, citing violations of several articles of the Constitution.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was passed by both houses of Parliament, despite significant opposition. The Rajya Sabha vote saw 128 in favor and 95 against, while the Lok Sabha recorded 288 supporting and 232 opposing votes. President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to the Bill on Saturday. The Supreme Court will now consider these multiple challenges to the Act’s legality.

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