The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Centre to file its reply to a series of PILs challenging the validity of certain provisions of Places of Worship Act of 1991. The apex court was hearing petitions filed by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy and advocate Ashwani Upadhyay and other petitions opposing the pleas.
A bench of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice JB Pardiwala said matter will be heard by a three-judge bench in July. “The pleas shall be listed before a three-judge bench in July 2023 and the Centre may file a reply by then,” it said.
The petitions filed by Right Wingers opposing the Places of Worship Act of 1991 demanded the quashing or partial changing od the Act, which ensures character of place of worship from what prevailed on August 15, 1947, except Ayodhya’s RamMandir.
There were many petitions opposing these petitions seeking stausquo as per Act. Many times, the top court has sought Central Government’s view on this petitions and Advocate Vrinda Grover pointed out that the Government has notfiled its reply.
On January 9, the top court asked Centre to file its reply to PILs against provisions of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, by February-end. During brief hearing on Wednesday, the court was informed by one of lawyers in case that Centre has not yet filed affidavit despite its order.