Govt., Opposition welcome order, Pg1

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court issued a judgment on the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025, prompting reactions from both the government and opposition.
• Union Minister Kiren Rijiju welcomed the court's judgment, stating that the provisions in the Act were beneficial to the Muslim community.
• The Opposition claimed the order as a victory, asserting it vindicates their stand against the law, which they deem "blatantly unconstitutional".
• The court stayed certain provisions, including those related to the powers of a Collector and the participation of non-Muslims in Waqf Boards.

Detailed Insights:

• The Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 aimed to amend the existing laws governing Waqf properties in India.
• The Supreme Court has paused the powers granted to a Collector in adjudicating the status of Waqf properties.
• The court directed that the Central Waqf Council should have no more than four non-Muslim members out of 20, and State Waqf Boards no more than three out of 11.
• Opposition leaders have urged a repeal of the law, claiming it targets a particular community and undermines the Constitution.
• The Left parties also welcomed the order, with the CPI general secretary stating that the Supreme Court has raised several issues about the law in its present form.
• AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi stated that the Act did not offer protection to Waqf properties and sought to reward encroachers.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Waqf: An irrevocable dedication made by Muslims of any property for religious, pious, or charitable purposes.
• Waqf Board: A body constituted to manage and administer Waqf properties, ensuring their proper utilization for intended purposes.
• Collector: A district official responsible for various administrative and revenue-related functions, including land management.