Owaisi Warns SC Order May Reward Waqf Encroachments
AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi has voiced serious concerns over the Supreme Court’s interim order on the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. While welcoming the stay on some contentious provisions, he warned that the current ruling might lead to encroachers being rewarded and the weakening of waqf protections.
Key Provisions Stayed
Among the clauses temporarily put on hold is the requirement that a person must have practised Islam for at least five years before dedicating property as waqf. The Court did not stay the entire Act, which means many other amendments will remain in force for now.
Concerns Over Protections
Owaisi argued that many waqf properties are vulnerable under the unchanged parts of the law. He questioned how non-Muslims are being included in Waqf Boards when Christian or Sikh religious bodies do not have similar structures in their affairs, suggesting a discrepancy in how rights are treated.
Calls for Final Verdict
Owaisi urged the Supreme Court to swiftly deliver a final judgment on the constitutionality of the entire Waqf Amendment Act. He expressed fear that unless the law is fully reviewed, waqf properties may face legal and administrative challenges.
