Breaking News: Supreme Court Begins Hearing on Petitions Against New Waqf Law | ABP NEWS

The Supreme Court will today begin hearing 72 petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the new Waqf law. A bench led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, along with Justices Sanjay Kumar and KV Viswanathan, will hear the matter at 2 PM. Petitioners argue that the amended law violates Articles 14, 15, 25, 26, 29, and 300A of the Constitution, relating to equality, religious freedom, cultural rights, and the right to property. The Central Government has already submitted its response defending the law. The legal battle comes amid ongoing street protests in several states. In West Bengal's Murshidabad district, protests have turned violent. To maintain order, BSF, CRPF, and RAF personnel have been deployed in sensitive areas like Jangipur, Dhuliyan, Suti, and Shamsherganj. So far, 221 people have been arrested in connection with the violence. Some Hindu families have reportedly left their homes due to threats and vandalism. Incidents of property damage and misbehavior toward women have also been reported. Politically, the issue has triggered a war of words. While the opposition has criticized Mamata Banerjee's government, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav has backed her, blaming the BJP for creating communal tension. The situation remains tense as the legal proceedings begin.