Story perspectives

Supreme Court Partially Stays Waqf Act, Future Ruling Looms

9/15/2025

Summary

Story summary

On September 15, 2025, the Supreme Court of India partially stayed the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, allowing most provisions to remain effective.
The court suspended the five-year Islamic practice requirement for creating a Waqf until state governments establish verification rules.
It halted provisions that allowed collectors to determine property status, citing separation of powers concerns.
The court limited non-Muslim representation in Waqf bodies, emphasizing Muslim leadership.
A final ruling on the Act's constitutionality is expected soon, impacting Waqf governance in India.

History

Historical Context

The Waqf Act of 1995 established a framework for managing Muslim charitable endowments in India, addressing over 500,000 properties. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board has since advocated for reforms to improve governance. The Supreme Court's recent ruling on the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, reflects ongoing tensions over religious representation in a secular state, potentially influencing future legal interpretations of religious laws.

1 of 2

Story summary

On September 15, 2025, the Supreme Court of India partially stayed the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, allowing most provisions to remain effective.
The court suspended the five-year Islamic practice requirement for creating a Waqf until state governments establish verification rules.
It halted provisions that allowed collectors to determine property status, citing separation of powers concerns.
The court limited non-Muslim representation in Waqf bodies, emphasizing Muslim leadership.
A final ruling on the Act's constitutionality is expected soon, impacting Waqf governance in India.

1 / 2