A major political and legal controversy has erupted in India over the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025. The ruling party in Tamil Nadu, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), has approached the Supreme Court with a powerful challenge, calling the new law a direct assault on the fundamental rights of Muslims across the country. The law, which received Presidential assent on April 5, has already sparked outrage, protests, and a flood of legal petitions.
Muslim Law Board Sparks Political Firestorm: DMK Takes Battle to Supreme Court Over ‘Violation of Muslim Rights’
But what exactly is the Waqf Amendment Act 2025? Why is it so controversial? And what does it mean for India’s 20 crore Muslims and their constitutionally protected religious and property rights?
Let’s break it down.
What Is the Waqf Act and Why Was It Amended?
To understand the uproar, we must first understand the Waqf system in India.
A "Waqf" is a religious endowment made by Muslims, typically in the form of land or property, for charitable or religious purposes—like building mosques, madrasas, orphanages, or supporting the poor. The original Waqf Act was passed in 1995 to regulate these properties under State Waqf Boards.
The Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 seeks to make major changes to how these Waqf properties are identified, managed, and administered.
While the Union Government claims the changes are meant to bring transparency and efficiency to the system, critics argue that the new provisions give the central and state governments sweeping powers over Waqf properties—powers that could potentially override community rights and religious freedom.
What the Waqf Amendment Act 2025 Actually Says
Here are some of the major highlights of the Amendment:
Stricter Control by the Government: The new law gives more powers to the Central Waqf Council and allows the government to conduct inspections, audits, and even intervene in the functioning of State Waqf Boards.Dilution of Community Participation: Many allege that the new law sidelines Muslim community representation in managing their own endowments.
DMK’s Fierce Opposition: ‘Violation of Muslim Rights’
The DMK, led by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Deputy General Secretary A. Raja (also a Lok Sabha MP), has emerged as a strong opponent of the Amendment.
DMK has filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court challenging the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025. The petition argues that the law:
- Violates fundamental rights under Articles 25, 26, and 30 of the Constitution.
- Impacts 50 lakh Muslims in Tamil Nadu and 20 crore across India.
- Was passed without proper consultation with key stakeholders, including members of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC).
- Was hurriedly passed in Parliament, ignoring objections raised during debates and in the JPC.
The petition, filed through senior advocate P. Wilson (also a DMK Rajya Sabha MP), has been marked for urgent hearing by the Chief Justice of India.
Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly’s Stand
Before filing the petition, the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly had already passed a formal resolution on March 27, 2025, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the Waqf Amendment Bill.
This shows the unified political will of the Tamil Nadu government, reflecting a strong stand in favor of protecting minority rights and religious freedoms.
Why the Waqf Amendment Is a Big Deal for Muslims
Waqf properties are not just land or buildings—they hold deep religious and cultural significance for Muslim communities. They fund schools, mosques, hospitals, and social welfare programs.
Community leaders fear that with the government tightening its grip, the autonomy and sanctity of these religious endowments could be compromised.
Some of the specific concerns include:
- Loss of control over how religious assets are used or developed.
- Fear of encroachments and land disputes.
- Lack of judicial remedy if property decisions are fast-tracked through new dispute boards.
- Threat to religious freedom and minority rights enshrined in the Constitution.
Other Petitions in the Supreme Court
The DMK is not alone in opposing the Act. Several other petitions from activists, minority organizations, and opposition leaders have already been filed in the Supreme Court, making this one of the most closely watched constitutional battles of the year.
On April 5, the petitions were mentioned before Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna for urgent hearing, and he assured that the matter would be considered for early listing.
Opposition Grows Across India
The impact of the Amendment is not just limited to Tamil Nadu. Muslim organizations across India—including in Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, West Bengal, and Maharashtra—have raised serious concerns. Protests have already been held in various cities, and legal awareness campaigns are underway.
Religious leaders have also issued public appeals for unity and caution, urging communities to understand the implications of the new law.
Why This Legal Battle Matters for All Indians
This case is not just about one community. It raises fundamental questions:
- Can the government control religious institutions?
- How far can Parliament go in legislating over matters of faith and property?
- Are minority rights safe under the Constitution?
The answers to these questions will shape India’s democratic and secular framework for years to come.
What Happens Next?
If the Supreme Court accepts the DMK’s petition for hearing, it could potentially strike down or modify key provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025.
Alternatively, the court may ask the government to re-examine the law and hold consultations with affected communities.
Either way, this legal battle will be a turning point in India’s approach to managing religious and minority institutions.
Final Thoughts on Fight for Rights, Identity, and Justice
The Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 has ignited a national debate on religious freedom, minority rights, and state control. The DMK’s bold move to challenge the law in the Supreme Court has added fuel to this fire.
For India’s Muslims, the outcome of this case will determine the future of their religious and charitable institutions. For the nation, it’s a test of constitutional values and democratic integrity.
As this legal and political storm unfolds, all eyes are now on the Supreme Court.
