Sat Apr 05 17:44:31 UTC 2025: ## Supreme Court to Hear Challenges to New Waqf Amendment Act
**NEW DELHI** – President Droupadi Murmu has signed into law the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Bill, sparking immediate legal challenges and widespread protests. The bill, passed by both houses of parliament after contentious debates, aims to curb misuse and encroachment of Waqf properties, but critics argue it is discriminatory against Muslims.
The Congress, AIMIM, and AAP have separately petitioned the Supreme Court, alleging the Act violates the fundamental rights of Muslims. MPs Mohammad Jawed (Congress), Asaduddin Owaisi (AIMIM), and Amanatullah Khan (AAP) cite concerns about discriminatory practices and potential dispossession of Muslim communities.
The Rajya Sabha approved the bill with a vote of 128 to 95, while the Lok Sabha passed it 288 to 232. The ruling NDA government insists the law is not anti-Muslim and will improve transparency and accountability within Waqf boards, ultimately benefiting Muslim women. BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad stated that the changes will not affect mosques or graveyards.
However, the All-India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has launched nationwide protests, claiming the Act is based on misinformation and vowing to peacefully counter its implementation. The six-month legislative process included the formation of a joint parliamentary committee to discuss the proposed amendments. The Supreme Court will now consider the merits of the legal challenges to the newly enacted law.
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