Here are the key developments surrounding the Waqf Amendment Bill:
Supreme Court to Hear Challenges: The Waqf Amendment Bill, which governs the management of Muslim charitable properties, was passed earlier this month. Today, a three-judge bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justices Sanjay Kumar and KV Vishwanathan will hear challenges to the bill at 2 pm.
Petitions Arguing Fundamental Rights Violation: While the Supreme Court had previously stated it would not interfere in legislative matters, it agreed to review petitions claiming the law infringes on fundamental rights such as equality and freedom of religious practice.
Opposition to the Bill: Political leaders from Congress, Janata Dal United, Aam Aadmi Party, DMK, and CPI, along with religious organizations like Jamiat Ulema Hind and the All-India Muslim Personal Law Board, have challenged the bill.
BJP-Ruled States Defend the Law: Six BJP-led states, including Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Assam, Maharashtra, and Uttarakhand, have filed applications to defend the Waqf Amendment Bill.
Petitions Calling for Repeal: Some petitions urge the Supreme Court to declare the law unconstitutional, while others demand that its implementation be halted, calling it arbitrary and discriminatory against Muslims.
Owaisi's Claim of Discrimination: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, in his petition, argues that the law diminishes the protections granted to Waqf properties, which he believes is discriminatory against Muslims compared to other religious properties.
AAP's Concerns Over Non-Muslim Members: AAP leader Amanatullah Khan challenges the law, stating that the inclusion of non-Muslim members on Waqf boards violates Article 14, as it does not align with the purpose of managing religious properties.
Government's Justification: The government defends the bill, asserting that it focuses on property management, not religion. It highlights widespread mismanagement of Waqf properties and the bill’s aim to rectify this, ensuring proceeds benefit impoverished Muslims and vulnerable communities.
Consultation and Support for the Bill: The government maintains that the bill was drafted after consulting various stakeholders, including non-Muslim minorities, and underwent scrutiny by a Joint Parliamentary Committee, incorporating amendments suggested by members.
Protests and Violent Backlash: The amended law has sparked protests, particularly in West Bengal, where violence led to three deaths and displaced many. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced that her government will not implement the amended Waqf law in the state.
As the Supreme Court prepares to hear these crucial petitions, the future of the Waqf Amendment Bill remains uncertain, with both legal and political battles unfolding across the country.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)