New Delhi, Sept. 15 -- The Supreme Court has put on hold several provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act while noting that they may lead to an arbitrary exercise of authority.

A bench headed by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, along with Justice AG Masih, observed that while the entire law would not be stayed, certain sections required protection. The court said the provision giving district Collectors the power to decide ownership of Waqf properties would remain suspended.

It stated that Collectors cannot adjudicate personal rights and that such disputes should go before the tribunal. Until then, no third-party rights can be created.

The court also restricted the composition of Waqf boards, saying not more than three non-Muslim members...