Kiren Rijiju Welcomes Supreme Court's Verdict on Waqf Act, Calls It a Victory for Democracy

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has welcomed the Supreme Court’s interim verdict on the Waqf Act, calling it a positive step for Indian democracy. The Supreme Court, in its decision, refused to strike down the entire Waqf Act, though it did put a stay on certain provisions that were contested by the petitioners. The case has triggered a broader political and legal conversation about the nature of religious property laws in India.

Reacting to the ruling, Rijiju said the Supreme Court’s stance reaffirmed the legislative power of Parliament, emphasizing that laws passed after comprehensive debates and deliberations cannot be arbitrarily rejected. "The decision of the Supreme Court bench is a positive sign for Indian democracy. The provisions of the Waqf Amendment Bill will benefit the Muslim community in a big way. I am fully satisfied with this decision," he said.

He also noted that the Solicitor General, appearing on behalf of the government, presented the intent and rationale behind the Act to the Supreme Court, which helped the bench understand the government’s point of view. Rijiju further added that the matter of rules regarding the practice of Islam and its interpretation under the law would be examined carefully. “We will look into what should be included in the rules and how it aligns with the rights of practicing Muslims,” he said.

Jagdambika Pal, BJP MP and Chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, also hailed the verdict. He pointed out that the amendment was passed after a lengthy 14-hour discussion in both Houses of Parliament and a six-month deliberation in the committee. "Today, the Supreme Court has given its approval to the amendment act passed by the legislature. Some of its provisions have been stayed, and the government will consider them seriously in light of the Court’s opinion," Pal said.

The Waqf Amendment Bill has been a topic of legal and political debate, with critics raising questions about land rights and religious neutrality, while supporters claim it strengthens the management of Waqf properties and streamlines oversight.

Importantly, the Court stated that it is not striking down the Act in its entirety, but will continue to examine specific provisions, particularly those related to religious practices and land management, before delivering a final verdict.

As the matter proceeds, both the Centre and stakeholders within the Muslim community will be watching closely. For now, the Supreme Court’s interim order has been received as a balanced outcome that preserves the law while allowing scope for judicial review and refinement.