The ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu, along with its ally, the VCK, has submitted an application to the Supreme Court to intervene in a petition challenging the constitutional validity of the Places of Worship Act, 1991. This Act mandates maintaining the status quo of religious sites as they existed on 15 August 1947.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justices Sanjay Kumar and K.V. Viswanathan is currently hearing a series of petitions both challenging and supporting the Act. The legislation has become a central issue in disputes over the ownership of religious sites, including cases involving the Gyanvapi Masjid and Sambhal Mosque.
The lead petition, filed by BJP leader Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, contests certain provisions of the Act. The petitioner argues that these sections violate constitutional principles, undermine secularism, and deny judicial remedies for alleged historical injustices.
In response, the DMK, represented by Senior Advocate P. Wilson, has sought to support the Act, presenting its case before the bench led by the Chief Justice.
During 12 December’s hearing, the Supreme Court issued a significant directive, restraining courts across the country from entertaining or passing orders on lawsuits seeking relief under the 1991 Act, including requests for surveys of religious sites. The court emphasized, “We are examining the vires, contours, and ambit of the 1991 Act,” and instructed other courts to refrain from intervening until further notice. Additionally, the bench ordered that no new suits related to the Act be filed or registered until further instructions are issued.
(With Inputs From India Today)
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