Kerala Hindu Organization Challenges Waqf Amendment Act in Supreme Court

In a significant legal development, a Kerala-based Hindu organization has moved the Supreme Court, challenging the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The organization contends that certain provisions of the Act infringe upon the religious autonomy guaranteed under the Indian Constitution.

Grounds for Challenge

The petitioners argue that the Waqf Amendment Act introduces changes that could undermine the management and administration of religious endowments. Specific concerns include the inclusion of non-Muslim members in Waqf Boards, which the petitioners claim could interfere with the community’s right to manage its religious affairs independently.

Additionally, the Act’s provisions related to the registration and administration of Waqf properties have been contested. The petitioners assert that these changes could lead to increased state control over religious properties, potentially conflicting with the principles of religious freedom and autonomy.

Broader Implications

This legal challenge adds to a series of petitions filed by various organizations and political parties questioning the constitutional validity of the Waqf Amendment Act. Previous petitions have highlighted concerns about the Act’s impact on minority rights and its potential to alter the traditional management of religious endowments.

The Supreme Court’s decision on this matter could have far-reaching implications for the governance of religious properties in India, particularly concerning the balance between state regulation and religious autonomy.

Conclusion

As the Supreme Court prepares to hear the case, the outcome will be closely watched by various religious and political groups. The decision will not only address the specific concerns raised by the petitioners but also set a precedent for the interpretation of religious autonomy under the Indian Constitution.