The Supreme Court examined the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, comparing Waqf to Hinduism’s Moksha and addressing its religious significance. Kapil Sibal argued that Waqf is a divine dedication, unlike mere charity, countering the Centre’s claims. The case highlights the essence of charity across religions and its implications for religious endowments.
The Supreme Court of India has reserved its verdict on petitions challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, after three days of hearings. Petitioners argue the Act’s changes, including removing ‘waqf by user,’ discriminate against Muslims and affect their religious management rights. The government defends the amendments as necessary to prevent misuse.
The Supreme Court on Thursday (19th Dec) stayed the Kerala High Court’s directives regulating elephant usage in temple festivals, deeming them “impractical” and outside the High Court’s authority. This decision grants temporary relief to festival organizers, allowing adherence to the 2012 management rules. Further hearings will address the legality and implications of these restrictions.