In a significant political development, the Indian National Congress (INC) has announced its decision to challenge the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Supreme Court of India, signaling yet another legal battle against the policies of the Modi-led central government. The move comes just hours after the Rajya Sabha cleared the contentious Bill, following its passage in the Lok Sabha during a late-night voting session.
Congress Gears Up for Legal Action Against Waqf Bill
Congress MP and communication head Jairam Ramesh stated that the party will be moving to the Supreme Court “very soon”, asserting that the legislation undermines key constitutional guarantees — particularly the freedom of religion. According to party insiders, the legal petition is already being drafted and will argue that the new amendments infringe upon the constitutional rights of religious minorities.
“The Congress is confident and will continue to resist all assaults of the Modi government on the principles, provisions, and practices enshrined in the Constitution of India,” said Ramesh in a firm response to the Bill’s passage.
Why is the Waqf (Amendment) Bill Controversial?
Introduced in August 2023, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill proposes sweeping changes to the regulation of Waqf properties — assets dedicated to religious or charitable causes under Islamic law. The government argues that the amendments aim to streamline administration, improve transparency, and ensure timely resolution of property disputes.
However, the Opposition parties, particularly the Congress, view it as a direct intrusion into Muslim religious affairs. They allege that the Bill could dilute the community’s rights over Waqf properties and potentially open the door to state interference, violating constitutional protections under Article 25 and Article 26, which guarantee the right to freely practice and manage religious affairs.
A Midnight Vote and Heated Parliamentary Debate
The Bill sailed through Lok Sabha following a 12-hour-long debate, culminating in a midnight vote that saw the BJP-led NDA government push it through despite opposition protests. The Rajya Sabha passed the Bill the following day after an intense debate that stretched well past midnight.
During the debates, several Opposition leaders accused the government of pushing an anti-minority agenda under the guise of administrative reforms. However, Union Home Minister Amit Shah rejected the allegations, clarifying that the Bill contains no provision for direct government control over Waqf properties and is purely aimed at improving governance and addressing long-pending legal disputes.
Congress’s Ongoing Legal Battles Against Key Laws
This latest move adds to a growing list of legal challenges the Congress has filed in the Supreme Court. Jairam Ramesh highlighted several ongoing cases:
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Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019
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Right to Information (RTI) Act Amendments, 2019
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Amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules, 2024
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Defense of the Places of Worship Act, 1991
The party maintains that each of these laws threatens the democratic framework and secular nature of the Indian Constitution.
Looking Ahead: A Crucial Legal and Political Test
As the Congress prepares to take the Waqf Amendment Bill battle to the apex court, the issue is set to become a major flashpoint in the lead-up to the 2024 General Elections. The challenge not only tests the strength of India’s constitutional protections but also reflects the growing confrontation between the Opposition and the ruling NDA on key legislative changes.
While the government maintains that the Bill is reformative and neutral, the Opposition insists that it is discriminatory and unconstitutional. The Supreme Court’s verdict on the matter could have long-lasting implications for both minority rights and religious freedom in India.
Conclusion
The Congress’s decision to contest the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in court marks a pivotal moment in India’s legislative landscape. As debates over constitutional integrity, minority rights, and executive overreach continue to intensify, the Supreme Court will now play a crucial role in determining the legality and impact of the controversial law.
Stay tuned for further updates as this legal and political battle unfolds — one that could redefine the balance between religious autonomy and state regulation in India.
Tags: Waqf Bill 2024, Congress Supreme Court Challenge, Jairam Ramesh, Waqf Amendment Explained, Religious Freedom India, Minority Rights, Indian Constitution, Modi Government News, BJP vs Congress, Supreme Court Cases India.