Waqf Amendment Act SC Hearing Today Highlights: The Supreme Court of India is hearing petitions today challenging the constitutional validity of the recently enacted Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The hearing, which began on Wednesday, concerns a law that amends the Waqf Act, 1995. It was passed by the Lok Sabha on April 3, cleared by the Rajya Sabha a day later, and received Presidential assent on April 5. Around 70 petitions have been listed before the top court for consideration today.
What does the amendment seek to change?
The new amendment focuses on the regulation of waqf properties — religious endowments designated for religious or charitable purposes under Islamic law. While the government claims it ensures better management and transparency, several leaders and organisations argue it infringes upon the autonomy of religious communities.
Political and legal opposition
A number of petitioners, including Congress MP Mohammad Jawed and AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi, have challenged the amendment, calling it discriminatory against Muslims and an unjustified intrusion into Islamic religious practices and property management. More petitions have followed in recent days, amplifying the controversy.
Interestingly, six BJP-ruled states — Haryana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Assam — have filed intervention applications in support of the amendment. These states contended that overturning the new law could disrupt administrative oversight of waqf properties and affect state governance.
SC bench hearing the petition
A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and comprising Justices PV Sanjay Kumar and KV Viswanathan is presiding over the matter. Close to 70 petitions are listed for hearing today, with Courtroom 1 witnessing a packed gathering of lawyers and observers.
Senior advocates Kapil Sibal, AM Singhvi, and Rakesh Dwivedi are appearing for the petitioners, while Solicitor General Tushar Mehta is representing the Union government.
Waqf Amendment Act Highlights: Follow Live Coverage on Supreme Court Hearing on Waqf Amendment Act
Waqf Amendment Act Live Updates: SC on Wednesday suggested no de-notification of Waqf properties
On Wednesday, April 16, 2025, the Supreme Court proposed issuing an order stating that properties declared as waqf, including those recognised as “waqf by user,” should not be de-notified. However, the Centre opposed the idea and requested a full hearing before any such directive is passed.
During the hearing, the court also questioned the government on whether Muslims would be permitted to participate in Hindu religious trusts, highlighting concerns about equal treatment across religious communities. Additionally, the bench expressed serious concern over the incidents of violence that erupted following the enactment of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, calling the developments troubling while the matter remained under judicial consideration.
Waqf Amendment Act Live Updates
Good Morning! Welcome to our LIVE coverage of the Waqf Amendment Act Supreme Court hearing. Stay tuned as the top court resumes proceedings today on petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the law.