Amanatullah Khan Moves SC Against Waqf Bill, Says "It Undermines Minority Rights"

Aam Aadmi Party leader Amanatullah Khan on Saturday approached the Supreme Court challenging the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

The plea, filed on Saturday through advocate Adeel Ahmed, targets key provisions of the bill, which has stirred significant political controversy.

Allegations Of Minority Rights Violation

In his petition, Khan argued that the bill infringes on the religious and cultural autonomy of the Muslim community. He also alleged that the amended act opens the door to arbitrary executive control over Waqf properties and poses a threat to the rights of religious minorities.

The challenge comes just a day after similar petitions were filed by the Congress and AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, highlighting growing concern among Opposition parties.

Parliament Passes Bill Amid Opposition Resistance

The Waqf Amendment Bill was passed by Parliament on Friday, securing 128 votes in favour and 95 against. The legislation triggered backlash from several Opposition leaders, who have labeled it “anti-Muslim.”

Despite the criticism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the bill’s passage as a “watershed moment,” asserting that it would empower the marginalised who have long been “denied both voice and opportunity.”

Government’s Justification

Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who introduced the bill in the Rajya Sabha, defended the move by stating that it is not aimed at targeting Muslims or their religious sentiments. According to Rijiju, the bill’s primary objective is to improve the governance of Waqf properties, streamline processes, and integrate technology for greater transparency.

“This bill is about reform, not repression,” Rijiju said during the debate. He emphasized that the legislation seeks to eliminate bureaucratic inefficiencies, simplify registration procedures, and enhance digital record-keeping to ensure better accountability.

Bill’s Impact & Political Fallout

The legislative process for the bill saw lengthy debates—nearly 12 hours in the Lok Sabha and over 13 hours in the Rajya Sabha. Despite the extensive discussions, the bill passed both houses, deepening political rifts in its wake.

In a notable political development, five leaders from Janata Dal (United) resigned in protest against their party’s support for the bill. The resignations underscore the growing unease even within NDA allies over the implications of the legislation.

What’s In The Bill?

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill seeks to revise the Waqf Act of 1995. The proposed changes focus on:

Enhancing the administrative efficiency of Waqf Boards
Simplifying the registration and management of Waqf properties
Reducing bureaucratic hurdles
Promoting transparency through technology-based solutions

While the government positions the bill as a necessary modernization step, its opponents view it as a move that may erode constitutional protections for religious minorities.

As the matter reaches the Supreme Court, it is poised to become a key flashpoint in the ongoing debate over minority rights, religious autonomy, and administrative reform in India.