The Supreme Court of India, while hearing petitions challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, raised key concerns over two major changes: removal of the 'waqf by user' provision and the inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf Boards. The court warned that derecognizing long-practiced religious sites without documents could lead to widespread issues, especially with historic mosques. It also questioned the rationale behind allowing non-Muslims in Waqf management, asking if the reverse would be acceptable for Hindu trusts. The Centre defended the amendments, stating they were passed after full parliamentary debate. Further hearings are expected. (PC: OpIndia)

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee addressed over 10,000 Imams and Muslim community members at the Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata during an Imam Conference. In her 46-minute speech, she strongly opposed the Waqf Amendment Act and repeatedly referenced the Constitution (25 times), Hindu (20), Muslim (17), Waqf (16), peace (13), and riot (12). She criticized the BSF’s role but delayed addressing accountability for the recent Murshidabad riots. The speech focused on promoting peace and defending minority rights, while carefully navigating around contentious issues until the end. (PC : Zee news)  

The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, raised concerns over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which permits the nomination of non-Muslim members to the Central Waqf Council and state waqf boards. During the hearing, the bench strongly reacted to the Centre's analogy suggesting that, by the same logic, Hindu judges shouldn't hear Waqf-related cases. CJI Khanna remarked, “When we sit on the bench, we lose our religion,” emphasizing judicial neutrality. The court is scrutinizing the Act's provisions and their implications on religious autonomy and minority rights. ( PC: Hindustan Times)

The Supreme Court has raised questions about the new Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, especially the removal of the “waqf by user” rule. This rule lets a property become waqf if used as one, even without official papers. The court suggested such properties should not lose their waqf status. The government disagreed and asked for a full hearing. Many petitions have been filed against the new law, including by politicians and religious groups. The court also pointed out that many old mosques have no sale deeds. The government will strongly defend the new law in court on Thursday. (PC: news18)

In the wake of violent clashes in Murshidabad, West Bengal, a widow recounted the brutal killing of her husband and son during protests over the Waqf Amendment Act. Masked attackers stormed their home, pelting stones and destroying property. Another victim, Pradipta Pal, said his shop was vandalized and torched by a mob of 150-200 people. Despite repeated calls, police reportedly didn’t respond. The violence erupted on April 11 in Dhulian, killing three and injuring several. Over 150 arrests have been made. BJP's Sukanta Majumdar alleged riot calls were made from mosque loudspeakers, as many victims took shelter in Malda camps.

In a significant move towards modernizing its arsenal, the Kerala Police has initiated a tender to procure 250 domestically manufactured AK-203 assault rifles, valued at ₹2.25 crore. This acquisition would make Kerala the first police force in India to adopt the advanced AK-203, a 7.62×39 mm caliber rifle known for its enhanced firepower and reliability. The rifles are produced by Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL), a joint venture between Russian and Indian defense firms. The step highlights India’s push for self-reliance in defense manufacturing. (PC: ANI)

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has formed a four-member team to look into the recent violence in Murshidabad, West Bengal. Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar will lead the team. The group will visit Malda on April 18 and Murshidabad on April 19. Many women fled their homes and crossed the Bhagirathi River to find safety. Three people died and over 200 were arrested. The team will meet victims and local officials to understand what happened. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) will also send a team for an on-the-spot probe. Reports will help stop such violence from happening again. (PC: PTI)

On April 15, 2025, West Bengal Police arrested brothers Kalu Nadar and Dildar Nadar for the brutal murder of Hargobind Das and his son Chandan Das during the violent riots in Murshidabad. The violence stemmed from tensions over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which triggered protests and communal unrest. The father-son duo were allegedly targeted and killed when their home was attacked by a mob. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the broader conspiracy and violence that shook the region earlier this month. (PC: PTI)  

During a hearing on the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, the Supreme Court questioned the Centre if Muslims would now be allowed to join Hindu religious boards, in light of the law permitting non-Muslims in the Central Waqf Council. Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna highlighted issues around “waqf by user” and its historical significance, warning against undoing long-standing religious usage without proper documents. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued the law aims for inclusivity, now representing more Muslim sects. Muslim bodies have filed over 70 petitions claiming the law violates their rights. The case may be moved to a high court.     (PC: News18.com)        

The Supreme Court of India upheld a Maharashtra municipal body's decision to include Urdu on a public signboard in Patur town, dismissing a challenge against it. A bench comprising Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Ahsanuddin Amanullah emphasized that Urdu is one of India’s recognized languages under the Constitution’s Eighth Schedule. They stated that language is a means of unity, not division, and is linked to culture, not religion. The Court reinforced that Urdu is not foreign to India and that linguistic inclusivity fosters national integration and cultural closeness. (PC: The Indian Express)