The Supreme Court of India is reviewing petitions against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which challenges the de-notification of properties declared as waqf. The court emphasized the importance of preserving existing waqf properties and expressed concerns over controversial provisions in the Amendment Act, indicating a possible interim order to address these issues.
The Waqf Amendment Bill, introduced by Minister Kiren Rijiju, faces backlash from opposition leaders like Gaurav Gogoi, who argue it undermines constitutional rights of minorities and promotes division in society. Key changes include requirements for ownership declarations and non-Muslim representation in Waqf governance, raising concerns about minority community rights.
Kerala: Today, 17th March, The Kerala High Court has quashed the Kerala government’s decision to appoint an inquiry commission to examine the rights of around 600 families facing eviction from Munambam land, which has been declared as waqf (an endowment under Islamic law for charitable or religious purposes).
The Rajasthan High Court ruled that a mosque falls under the definition of ‘Waqf,’ and any disputes regarding such properties must be adjudicated by the Waqf Tribunal. The case involved a dispute over the Madina Zama Masjid, where the petitioners (defendants) claimed ownership of the property. The court emphasized that matters related to Waqf properties […]
The Parliament’s Joint Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, has recommended that the government introduce a law to stop tribal lands from being declared as Waqf property. This suggestion was made in its 655-page-long draft report, which was circulated less than 24 hours before the committee’s final meeting.
A plea filed by the Shahi Idgah Management Committee was dismissed by the Delhi High Court, which criticized the appeal as politically motivated and a potential source of communal tension. The court indicated that the installation of a statue of Rani Lakshmi Bai would proceed as planned by the MCD, emphasizing women’s empowerment.
Madhya Pradesh High Court Justice lashed out on an advocate while hearing a plea by the Archaeological Survey of India against the Waqf Board. Justice Gurpal Singh Ahluwalia questioned an advocate on how a mere notification can legitimise a protected property as Waqf property.
The Hindu side argues in the Krishna Janmbhoomi-Idgah suit that a mosque’s presence does not automatically make the property a Waqf. They assert that the land was originally a temple and challenge the mosque’s claim. The High Court will continue hearings, addressing legal issues and considering evidence regarding the property’s designation and history.
The dispute at Krishna Koop in Mathura has intensified as Hindu worshipers seek permission for the ‘Basoda puja’, met with objections from the Muslim community. The Allahabad High Court is considering the plea, emphasizing the historical and religious significance of the site. The next hearing is scheduled for April 1.
