Priyanka Tiwari
Share
The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has announced its decision to approach the Supreme Court against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha and party leader Fayaz Ahmed are expected to file the petition on Monday. The party claims the Act could negatively affect the administration and autonomy of Waqf properties.
Strong Opposition Across Political Lines
Several opposition parties, including Congress, AIMIM, and AAP, have raised concerns regarding the constitutionality of the new Waqf legislation. Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, who was part of the Joint Parliamentary Committee that reviewed the original bill, filed a petition in the Supreme Court on April 4, alleging that the Act violates the rights of the Muslim community.
Legal Grounds Challenging the Act
The petition submitted by advocate Anas Tanwir claims the Act violates key constitutional provisions such as:
Article 14: Right to equality
Article 25: Freedom of religion
Article 26: Rights to manage religious affairs
Article 29: Protection of minority interests
Article 300A: Right to property
Other Legal Challenges to the Waqf Law
AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi also filed a petition on April 4. He argues the law limits religious freedoms and promotes undue government interference. On April 5, AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan challenged the law, stating it undermines religious and cultural autonomy of Muslims and threatens minority rights.
Parliamentary Approval and Presidential Assent
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 received approval from both Houses of Parliament after intense debates. The Rajya Sabha passed the bill with 128 votes in favor and 95 against, while the Lok Sabha approved it with a 288–232 vote. President Droupadi Murmu granted assent on April 5, officially enacting it into law.
