SC Continues Hearing on Waqf Law for Second Day, Refuses to Stay the Act

New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India is currently hearing over 100 petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Waqf Act. The second day of the hearing is scheduled for Thursday, following a two-hour session on Wednesday. During the session, the court sought a response from the central government but declined to impose a stay on the Act. The bench, led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and comprising Justice P.S. Sanjay Kumar and Justice S.V.N. Bhatti, expressed concerns regarding the inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf Boards and the Central Waqf Council. The judges questioned whether similar inclusion of Muslims in Hindu religious trusts would be acceptable, highlighting the issue of religious representation and balance in statutory bodies.

Protests Across the Country Raise Alarm

The court also addressed the nationwide protests and incidents of violence associated with opposition to the Waqf Act. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing on behalf of the Centre, emphasized that violence must not be seen as a means of exerting pressure on the judiciary. The bench echoed this sentiment, stating that it would take an appropriate decision in due course without being influenced by external pressures.

Interim Order Expected After Further Hearing

Though over 70 petitions were heard on Wednesday, the bench refrained from passing any interim order. It stated that the matter would be reconsidered on Thursday, and an interim decision may be taken after further deliberation. No fresh notices were issued to any party during Wednesday’s proceedings.

Supreme Court Concerned Over Violence in Bengal

Towards the end of the hearing, the bench expressed deep concern over reports of ongoing violence in Murshidabad, West Bengal, related to the Waqf protests. The judges remarked that such incidents were worrisome and should not occur, especially when the matter is sub judice. Senior advocates Kapil Sibal, Rajeev Dhavan, and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the petitioners, also condemned the violence and urged for peace.

AIMPLB Announces 87-Day Protest Campaign

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has launched a nationwide "Save Waqf Movement" campaign in response to the Waqf Act. The 87-day campaign, running from April 11 to July 7, aims to collect one crore signatures opposing the Act, which will be submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Further strategies will be decided after this phase.