SRINAGAR: The Supreme Court has issued an interim stay on the implementation of the controversial amendments to the Waqf Act, 2025. The decision comes after the court heard multiple petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the new amendments, which had triggered widespread concern and protests from various sections of the Muslim community across the country.
The petitioners argued that the amended law infringes upon the rights of Waqf institutions and the Muslim community, and sought the court’s intervention to safeguard their interests.
During the hearing, the apex court questioned the government over the provisions of the amended Act and directed that no new members be added to Waqf Boards, while also instructing that ‘Waqf-by-user’ properties should not be denotified until further orders.
The interim relief has brought hope to the community, as the legal battle against the law continues in court.
Reacting to the development, Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq welcomed the court’s decision, calling it a source of hope for Muslims across India. “The Supreme Court asking some tough questions of the Government on the Waqf Amendment Act, and its interim stand—that no new members will be added to Waqf boards and that ‘Waqf-by-user’ properties will not be denotified—is welcome. It gives hope to Muslims who look up to it as their last recourse for relief and justice,” Mirwaiz said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
He further expressed hope that the apex court would eventually strike down the amended Act, which he described as “biased and excessive” and contrary to the interests of the Muslim community.
The Waqf Amendment Act, 2025, introduced by the Centre, has faced intense criticism for allegedly centralising control over Muslim religious endowments and weakening the autonomy of state Waqf Boards. Over 70 petitions have been filed against the law by religious organisations, community leaders, and legal experts.
