Supreme Court to Hear Waqf (Amendment) Act Case on May 15

Last Updated May - 05 - 2025, 05:45 PM | Source : Fela News

The Supreme Court will hear challenges to the Waqf (Amendment) Act on May 15, with the new bench headed by Justice B R Gavai, as the current CJI, Justice Khanna

The Supreme Court announced that a bench led by Chief Justice-designate Justice B R Gavai will hear the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act on May 15, after the current CJI, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, demits office on May 13.

The CJI explained that while certain aspects of the case require clarification, the court would not reserve judgment at this interim stage. The Centre’s affidavit, which addresses concerns over Waqf property registration and disputed figures, will need further consideration. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta acknowledged the CJI’s upcoming retirement, emphasizing the need for an early hearing. The Centre had previously assured the court on April 17 that it would not denotify Waqf properties or make appointments to central Waqf councils until May 5.

It also filed a 1,332-page affidavit defending the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, urging the court not to pass a blanket stay. The law, which was passed in Parliament, has faced opposition regarding its impact on the Muslim community and the registration of “Waqf by user” properties.