Supreme Court Waqf Law: Key Amendments Under Scrutiny .

April 17, 2025 – New Delhi

The Supreme Court on Thursday began hearing petitions that challenge the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. A bench led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, along with Justices Sanjay Kumar and K.V. Viswanathan, is examining if recent amendments infringe property rights and religious freedoms. Petitioners argue the law grants unchecked power to district authorities and threatens long-held waqf properties.

Supreme Court Waqf Law Review Focuses on Collector Powers

One major issue under scrutiny is a provision allowing district collectors to declare lands as government property. Under the amended law, collectors can temporarily suspend waqf status until a court delivers a verdict. Although the bench acknowledged that preliminary inquiries might be justified, it strongly questioned the move to suspend waqf status without judicial oversight.

Moreover, the amendment removes the concept of “waqf-by-user,” which previously allowed community use to establish waqf claims. Critics believe this change could lead to legitimate waqf lands losing their protection. Consequently, the hearing on this aspect has drawn intense debate from both sides.

Supreme Court Waqf Law Case Attracts Widespread Opposition

Leaders like Congress MP Imran Masood, AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan, and RJD MP Manoj Jha, along with various civil rights groups, have filed petitions. They argue that the amended law diminishes community rights over religious endowments. Meanwhile, the Rajasthan government defended the changes, claiming they aim to prevent illegal waqf claims that could delay public infrastructure projects.

Wider Implications for Religious Trusts

As arguments unfold, legal experts and community organizations remain highly attentive. The Supreme Court’s verdict will likely shape the future handling of religious trusts in India. Ultimately, the ruling may redefine the balance between administrative authority and minority rights.

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