The Indian National Congress (INC) has requested the Supreme Court to intervene in a challenge against the Places of Worship Act (POWA), 1991. The INC emphasized that secularism is rooted in India’s nationalism and Freedom Movement.
1991 Act Ensures Religious Harmony
The Act preserves the religious character of places of worship as they existed on August 15, 1947. The INC highlighted that it was instrumental in drafting the law during its majority in the 10th Lok Sabha.
Opposition to Alterations in POWA
The INC warned that altering the Act could harm India’s secular fabric and communal harmony. The party quoted the Supreme Court’s observation that secularism in India protects minorities and ensures state neutrality toward all religions.
Supreme Court’s Freeze on Civil Court Orders
In December, a Special Bench led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna barred civil courts from entertaining new suits or issuing orders to reclaim religious sites destroyed in the 16th century. The freeze aims to prevent violations of Sections 3 and 4 of the Act, which prohibit conversion of religious places and protect their 1947 status.
The INC, along with minority organizations and senior advocates, argues that the Act is essential for safeguarding secularism and preventing communal tensions.
