On May 5, 2025, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna transferred the petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, to a bench led by Justice B.R. Gavai. The hearing is scheduled for May 15, 2025, the day after CJI Khanna’s retirement .

The batch of five petitions, titled “In Re: Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025,” includes challenges from various political parties and organizations, such as AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, the Communist Party of India, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, and Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind .

During the proceedings, CJI Khanna noted that due to his impending retirement, he could not pass any interim orders. He emphasized that the case involves complex issues requiring detailed consideration, making it unsuitable for a summary decision .

The Supreme Court had previously declined to entertain additional petitions on this matter, consolidating the challenges into the five petitions currently before the court .

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, was enacted after receiving assent from President Droupadi Murmu on April 5, 2025, following its passage in Parliament. The Act has been a subject of debate and legal scrutiny, with opponents questioning its constitutional validity .

The upcoming hearing on May 15 will be crucial in determining the future of the Act and its implications for waqf properties and governance.

Sources