Senior Congress leaders from Manipur—Md Fajur Rahim, Working President of the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) and former MLA of Wabgai, and Md Amin Shah, former MLA of Kshetrigao—have filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court of India challenging the Waqf Amendment Act, 2025.
The petition, submitted earlier today, raises serious concerns over the alleged dilution of powers vested in State Waqf Boards and the potential infringement on the fundamental rights of the Muslim community. The leaders contend that the amended provisions threaten religious autonomy and minority rights safeguarded by the Constitution.
Md Fajur Rahim stated that the amendment violates Articles 25 and 26 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantee religious freedom and the right to manage religious affairs. “The 2025 amendment has far-reaching consequences. It centralizes control and weakens the functioning of State Waqf Boards, especially in states like Manipur,” he remarked.
Echoing similar sentiments, Md Amin Shah said, “The Act undermines the purpose for which Waqf properties are meant. We have taken legal recourse to protect community rights and ensure justice.”
Legal experts believe the Supreme Court will closely examine whether the amendment violates constitutional provisions and the federal structure of governance.
The Waqf Amendment Act, 2025, passed by Parliament earlier this year, has been met with criticism from several quarters, including opposition parties and minority organizations. The Congress party has strongly opposed the legislation and extended its support to all legal and democratic measures taken against it.
The matter is expected to be listed for hearing in the coming days.