The Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind has approached the Supreme Court, challenging the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. Passed by Parliament and signed into law by President Droupadi Murmu, the Act has drawn strong criticism from several Muslim organizations and political leaders, who have termed it a direct assault on religious freedom and minority rights.
Describing the Act as a “dangerous conspiracy,” Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind asserted that it threatens the constitutional guarantees of equality and religious freedom. The organization fears the law could deprive Muslims of their rights over Waqf properties, and its state units are preparing to file similar petitions in high courts across the country.
Supporting this legal challenge, the Samastha Kerala Jamiathul Ulema—a prominent Sunni body in Kerala—has also filed a plea through advocate Zulfiker Ali P S. The petition argues that the Act infringes upon the rights of religious groups to manage their own affairs, as protected under Article 26 of the Constitution. It warns that the amendments could distort the religious nature of Waqfs and undermine democratic practices in managing these properties.
A key concern raised is the centralization of control over Waqf institutions. Critics argue that the Act removes significant powers from State Waqf Boards and state governments, transferring them to the Centre—an act that could marginalize community participation and weaken local oversight.
Political opposition is also mounting. Congress MP Mohammad Jawed has filed a petition stating the Act imposes arbitrary restrictions that undermine the autonomy of the Muslim community. AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi called the law discriminatory, stating it strips Muslims of protections while leaving other religious endowments untouched—violating Articles 14 and 15 of the Constitution.
AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan also seeks to have the law struck down, citing violations of Articles 14, 15, 21, 25, 26, 29, 30, and 300-A. The passage of the Act has now become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over religious freedom, secularism, and government control over minority institutions.
