New Delhi, April 14, 2025:
In a significant development during the ongoing hearing on the constitutional validity of the Waqf Amendment Act, the Supreme Court of India posed a pointed question to the Centre, asking whether members of the Muslim community would be allowed to be part of Hindu religious trusts, drawing a parallel with the functioning of Waqf Boards.
The bench, headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, observed, “If members of other communities are not allowed to participate in the management of Hindu religious institutions, how is it justified for the Waqf Board, a statutory body, to have exclusive community-based representation?”
The hearing comes in response to multiple petitions challenging the Waqf Amendment Act, which grants significant powers to Waqf Boards regarding the management of Muslim religious and charitable properties. Petitioners argue that the Act violates principles of secularism and equality under the Constitution.
The Supreme Court’s remark has reignited a national conversation on religious autonomy, constitutional equality, and the state’s role in managing religious trusts.
The Centre is expected to file a detailed response in the coming days. The hearing continues.
