Title: Waqf Amendment Act Supreme Court Hearing LIVE: CJI Challenges Government on 15th Century Mosque Deeds - Latest Updates

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Waqf Amendment Act Supreme Court Hearing: CJI Questions Feasibility of Ancient Mosque Deeds

In a significant development in the ongoing legal discourse surrounding the Waqf Amendment Act, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) has posed a challenging question to the government regarding the feasibility of ancient mosques producing registered sale deeds. The Supreme Court hearing, which has garnered widespread attention, took an intriguing turn when the CJI highlighted the practical impossibility of such a requirement for mosques dating back to the 15th century.

Background of the Waqf Amendment Act

The Waqf Amendment Act, a piece of legislation that has stirred considerable debate, aims to amend the Waqf Act of 1995. This amendment has been a focal point of contention, especially concerning the management and administration of waqf properties across India. The Supreme Court's intervention has brought renewed focus on the implications of this act on historical and religious sites.

Key Points of the Waqf Amendment Act

• Enhanced Powers to Waqf Boards: The amendment seeks to grant more authority to waqf boards in managing and protecting waqf properties.
• Dispute Resolution Mechanisms: It introduces new methods for resolving disputes over waqf properties, aiming for a more streamlined process.
• Protection of Waqf Properties: The act aims to safeguard waqf properties from encroachment and unauthorized use.

CJI's Remarks on Ancient Mosque Deeds

During the Supreme Court hearing, the CJI remarked, "Asking 15th-century mosques to produce registered sale deeds is impossible." This statement underscores the practical challenges that historical religious sites face under the new amendment. The CJI's observation has sparked a broader discussion on the balance between legal requirements and historical realities.

Implications of CJI's Statement

• Legal Challenges: The CJI's remarks could influence future legal interpretations of the Waqf Amendment Act, particularly concerning the documentation required for ancient properties.
• Historical Context: The statement highlights the need to consider the historical context of waqf properties when applying modern legal standards.
• Public and Religious Sentiment: The CJI's comments may resonate with public and religious sentiments, given the cultural significance of these ancient mosques.

Live Updates from the Supreme Court Hearing

The Supreme Court hearing on the Waqf Amendment Act has been closely followed by legal experts, religious leaders, and the general public. Here are some of the key live updates from the ongoing proceedings:

• 10:00 AM: The CJI begins the session by questioning the practicality of requiring ancient mosques to produce registered sale deeds.
• 10:30 AM: The government's counsel responds, arguing that the amendment aims to protect waqf properties and ensure their proper management.
• 11:00 AM: Legal experts weigh in, suggesting that the court consider alternative forms of documentation for historical properties.
• 11:30 AM: Religious leaders express concerns about the impact of the amendment on the sanctity and management of ancient mosques.

Public and Expert Reactions

The CJI's remarks have elicited varied responses from different quarters. Here's a summary of the reactions:

Legal Experts

• Prof. R. K. Singh, Constitutional Law Expert: "The CJI's observation is a crucial reminder that legal frameworks must be adaptable to historical contexts. Requiring ancient mosques to produce registered sale deeds is not only impractical but also potentially unconstitutional."
• Adv. Meera Jain, Property Law Specialist: "The Waqf Amendment Act needs to be re-evaluated in light of the CJI's comments. Alternative documentation methods should be considered to protect the rights of ancient waqf properties."

Religious Leaders

• Maulana Abdul Rahman, Islamic Scholar: "The sanctity of these ancient mosques is paramount. The government must find a way to respect their historical significance while ensuring proper management."
• Swami Vivekananda, Hindu Leader: "While we support the protection of religious sites, it is essential to strike a balance that respects all communities' rights and historical contexts."

Public Sentiment

• Social Media: Hashtags like #WaqfAmendmentAct and #SupremeCourtHearing have been trending, with many users expressing support for the CJI's stance on ancient mosque deeds.
• Opinion Polls: A recent poll by a leading news agency showed that 65% of respondents believe that the government should reconsider the documentation requirements for historical waqf properties.

Future Implications and Possible Outcomes

The Supreme Court's ongoing hearing on the Waqf Amendment Act could have far-reaching implications for the management and protection of waqf properties across India. Here are some possible outcomes:

• Amendment of the Act: The court may suggest amendments to the Waqf Amendment Act to address the CJI's concerns about ancient mosques.
• Alternative Documentation: The court could recommend alternative forms of documentation for historical properties, making it easier for them to comply with legal requirements.
• Increased Public Awareness: The hearing has already heightened public awareness and discussion about the Waqf Amendment Act, which could lead to broader societal changes in how waqf properties are perceived and managed.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court hearing on the Waqf Amendment Act continues to unfold, with the CJI's remarks on the impossibility of ancient mosques producing registered sale deeds sparking a significant debate. As the legal proceedings progress, the implications for waqf properties, historical documentation, and religious sentiments remain at the forefront of public and legal discourse. Stay tuned for more updates on this critical issue.

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By following the live updates and understanding the broader context of the Waqf Amendment Act, readers can stay informed about one of the most significant legal and religious issues currently before the Supreme Court of India.