India's highest court rejected demands to halt the entire Waqf Amendment Act on Monday. The justices explained that laws carry constitutional validity and require exceptional circumstances for suspension. Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice A.G. Masih blocked two specific sections from taking effect immediately. The court prevented the enforcement of rules requiring five years of Islamic practice for waqf creation. Officials also suspended powers allowing government officers to settle property boundary disputes.
The bench limited the representation of non-Muslim members on religious boards across the nation. State waqf committees may appoint three non-Muslim representatives, while the central board accepts four such members. Judges refused to stop mandatory property registration procedures since previous laws contained similar requirements. The legislation received presidential approval and became active on April 5 after parliamentary passage.
Opposition politicians Asaduddin Owaisi and Mohammad Jawed filed constitutional challenges against the amended statute. The lawmakers argue the changes target Muslim communities unfairly and violate equal treatment principles.
The bench limited the representation of non-Muslim members on religious boards across the nation. State waqf committees may appoint three non-Muslim representatives, while the central board accepts four such members. Judges refused to stop mandatory property registration procedures since previous laws contained similar requirements. The legislation received presidential approval and became active on April 5 after parliamentary passage.
Opposition politicians Asaduddin Owaisi and Mohammad Jawed filed constitutional challenges against the amended statute. The lawmakers argue the changes target Muslim communities unfairly and violate equal treatment principles.
