The Congress and Samajwadi Party are filing separate Supreme Court petitions to ensure the effective implementation of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, amidst existing challenges to its validity. The Act preserves the religious character of places as of August 15, 1947, except the Ayodhya dispute. Both parties emphasize its importance for communal harmony, citing its recognition in the 2019 Ayodhya verdict as part of the Constitution’s “basic structure.” The Congress has reaffirmed its commitment to the Act amid internal and external pressures, while the SP is being assisted by senior advocate Kapil Sibal in drafting its plea.
The Supreme Court is set to hear petitions today challenging the Uttar Pradesh government’s order for shopkeepers along the Kanwar Yatra route to display their names. Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra argues that the directive violates constitutional rights. The move has sparked criticism and is expected to be discussed in Parliament.
The Supreme Court issued an interim order staying criminal proceedings against Samajwadi Party leader Swami Prasad Maurya for allegedly insulting the Ramcharitmanas. Maurya’s controversial remarks triggered an FIR, leading to swift condemnation from the seer community and distancing by his own party. The incident underscores the delicate nature of discussing religious texts in Indian politics.