KKN Gurugram Desk | On April 14, 2025, the ongoing controversy surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 took a new turn as the political party led by Tamil film superstar, Thalapathy Vijay, filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the recently passed law. This legal challenge, coupled with the filing of a caveat petition by the central government, signifies the escalating tension surrounding the amendment.

Waqf Amendment Act 2025: What is it?

The Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 is a revision to the original Waqf Act of 1995. It seeks to address various management and operational challenges faced by the Waqf institutions in India, particularly in terms of the financial accountability and governance structure. With this amendment, the central government aims to streamline the functioning of these organizations by bringing in greater transparency and efficiency. However, the law has sparked considerable controversy, with political parties, religious groups, and social organizations voicing opposition against it.

Key Features of the Amendment:

• Unified Waqf Management: The law introduces a unified approach to the management of Waqf properties, focusing on their empowerment, efficiency, and development.

• Stricter Financial Oversight: One of the main features of the amendment is the introduction of stricter financial oversight on Waqf properties to curb mismanagement and corruption.

• Increased Government Control: The amendment gives the government more influence over the decision-making process regarding the administration of Waqf properties, which has raised concerns about undue interference in religious matters.

Thalapathy Vijay’s Political Party Takes a Stand Against the Waqf Amendment Act

Thalapathy Vijay, the famous Tamil actor, and leader of the political party Tamil Nadu Vetrikazhagam (TVK), has strongly opposed the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025. His party’s move to approach the Supreme Court underscores the gravity of the situation and the widespread political implications of the law. The petition filed by TVK seeks to challenge the constitutionality of the amendment, citing concerns about its potential to infringe on the rights of Muslim communities and the autonomy of religious institutions.

A Political Standoff:

• The opposition parties, particularly in Tamil Nadu, have rallied behind Vijay’s stance against the Waqf law. The amendment is seen by many as a means of centralizing power over Waqf institutions, which are traditionally managed by religious bodies.

• The legal challenge filed by TVK argues that the law violates constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and institutional autonomy.

Upcoming Supreme Court Hearing on April 16, 2025

The Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing for April 16, 2025 to address the petition filed by Thalapathy Vijay’s party. During this hearing, the Court will consider the legality of the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025, particularly whether it infringes upon the constitutional rights of the Muslim community and their religious institutions.

What Is at Stake?

• The Waqf Amendment Act has the potential to reshape the way Waqf properties are governed, impacting millions of Muslims who rely on the revenue generated by these assets for their religious and social welfare.

• A ruling against the amendment could delay the implementation of the law, while a ruling in favor would likely lead to its widespread enforcement.

Central Government’s Caveat Petition: A Crucial Development

In addition to the opposition party’s petition, the central government has also filed a caveat petition in the Supreme Court. A caveat petition is a request to the court to not pass any ex-parte orders (orders without hearing both parties) in this case. The government’s petition asks the Court to allow it to present its case before any orders are passed.

Central Government’s Stand:

• The central government has argued that the amendment is necessary for the transparency and efficiency of Waqf management and that the law does not infringe on the rights of religious communities.

• The government has requested that it be given an opportunity to present its arguments in favor of the amendment before the Court makes a final decision.

The government’s caveat is a crucial legal maneuver that highlights the importance of this case and the government’s intention to ensure that its position is fully considered before any judicial pronouncement is made.

Legislative Journey of the Waqf Amendment Act

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was passed by both houses of Parliament despite significant opposition. The bill was approved by the Lok Sabha (lower house) on April 3, 2025, with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. The following day, the Rajya Sabha (upper house) also passed the bill with 128 votes in favor and 95 against.

The bill was subsequently sent to President Droupadi Murmu for her approval, which she granted, thereby making the Waqf Amendment Act 2025 a law. Upon receiving the President’s approval, the Gazette Notification was issued, officially changing the name of the Waqf Act, 1995, to the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UWEED) Act, 1995.

Widespread Opposition: Muslim Organizations and Opposition Parties Unite

While the amendment has garnered support from the central government and certain religious bodies, it has been met with vehement opposition from several Muslim organizations and opposition parties. The law’s critics argue that it undermines the autonomy of Waqf boards and allows the central government to exert undue control over religious institutions.

Key Concerns Raised by Opponents:

• Infringement on Religious Autonomy: Critics claim that the government’s increased control over Waqf properties could lead to interference in religious matters and potentially violate the constitutional principle of religious freedom.

• Lack of Consultation: Opponents argue that the law was passed without adequate consultation with the Muslim community or relevant stakeholders, making it an undemocratic imposition.

• Impact on Religious Institutions: The law could disrupt the functioning of religious schools, hospitals, and charitable organizations that depend on Waqf properties.

Impact on Political Landscape: Thalapathy Vijay’s Role

Thalapathy Vijay, known for his influence in Tamil Nadu politics, has once again demonstrated his political clout by leading the charge against the Waqf Amendment Act. His involvement in this issue is a significant moment in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. Vijay has become a prominent voice in opposing central government policies that he believes negatively impact the rights of minorities and marginalized communities.

What’s Next?

The legal battle surrounding the Waqf Amendment Act 2025 is far from over. As the Supreme Court prepares to hear arguments from both sides on April 16, 2025, all eyes will be on how the Court balances the constitutional rights of religious communities with the government’s objectives of reforming Waqf management.

The Waqf Amendment Act 2025 has become a contentious issue, drawing in both political and legal perspectives. While the central government maintains that the amendment is crucial for improving transparency and efficiency in Waqf property management, many critics believe it undermines religious autonomy. As the legal battle intensifies with Thalapathy Vijay’s petition and the central government’s caveat, the outcome of the Supreme Court hearing will have far-reaching implications for both the law and Indian politics.