AAP Moves Supreme Court Against Waqf Amendment Bill, Becomes Third Opposition Challenger

New Delhi: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has approached the Supreme Court challenging the constitutional validity of the controversial Waqf Amendment Bill, becoming the third opposition party to do so after the Congress and AIMIM. The bill, which has been cleared by both Houses of Parliament, now awaits Presidential assent.

AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan filed the petition, arguing that the proposed amendments to the Waqf Act, 1995, infringe on the religious and cultural autonomy of Muslims and violate fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution. “The bill enables arbitrary executive interference and undermines the rights of minorities to manage their religious and charitable institutions,” the plea stated.

The legislation, which has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, seeks to introduce sweeping changes to the management of Waqf properties. Critics argue that the bill is discriminatory and particularly targets Muslim institutions. A key point of contention is the provision allowing non-Muslims to be appointed to Waqf boards—a move not mirrored in the governance of other religious bodies like Hindu or Jain endowments.

Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, who had earlier served on the joint parliamentary committee reviewing the bill, also filed a petition, claiming the law imposes unequal restrictions on Muslims. AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi echoed the concern, calling it a “grave constitutional violation” and accused the government of waging “a war on Muslims” under the guise of legal reform.

“The BJP is using its majority not to reform but to take away rights from Muslims,” Mr Owaisi said during an interview with NDTV, warning that the law could erode centuries-old religious freedoms.

Defending the bill, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said it aims to bring accountability and transparency to Waqf boards. “No mosque or graveyard will be touched. The bill is intended to ensure that Waqf properties are managed more effectively,” he stated.

The Lok Sabha passed the bill with 288 votes in favour and 232 against, while the Rajya Sabha cleared it with 128 votes supporting and 95 opposing. The heated debate in Parliament was followed by widespread protests in cities like Kolkata, Chennai, and Ahmedabad after Friday prayers, as demonstrators voiced concerns over the bill’s implications.