The Supreme Court of India is set to continue hearing petitions challenging the controversial Waqf Amendment Act, 2025 on Thursday, reigniting national attention on the legislation that has sparked widespread protests and legal scrutiny.
The bench, headed by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, is expected to address several Public Interest Litigations (PILs) and individual petitions filed by religious bodies, activists, and community leaders, who argue that the amended law violates constitutional rights and threatens the autonomy of Waqf properties across the country.
Petitioners contend that the Act was passed hastily without adequate consultation with stakeholders and that key provisions undermine the principles of religious freedom, property rights, and minority protection enshrined in the Constitution. Several legal experts have also raised concerns about retrospective clauses and the expanded powers granted to central authorities under the new law.
The Centre, in its earlier submissions, has defended the Act, claiming that it aims to bring “transparency and accountability” to the functioning of Waqf Boards and to prevent misuse or encroachment of religious endowments.
The outcome of Thursday’s hearing could have significant implications for Waqf governance and minority rights in India, especially following the recent passage of the Act in both Houses of Parliament amid fierce opposition.
Security has been tightened around the Supreme Court premises, and heavy deployment is expected in various states where demonstrations are anticipated as the hearing progresses.
