IT News
Imphal, April 8:
Thousands of people staged mass protests across Imphal East, Thoubal and Bishnupur districts on Tuesday, opposing the Waqf Amendment Act 2025 and demanding its immediate withdrawal. The protests, led by members of the Muslim community, reflected widespread concern over the Act’s perceived threat to ancestral properties and religious autonomy.
At Kwakta in Bishnupur district, over 5,000 demonstrators—including women in burqas and children—marched for nearly four kilometers while chanting slogans condemning the BJP-led government. Protesters alleged that the new law is a deliberate attempt to usurp community-owned Waqf properties handed down through generations.
In Imphal East’s Khumidok area, around 500 people formed a human chain at the local bazaar in a symbolic protest against the Act. Demonstrators demanded the law be repealed, warning that it could destabilize communal harmony in the region.
Reacting to the growing unrest, Kshetrigao MLA, Sheikh Noorul Hassan condemned the central government for passing the Act without consulting stakeholders. “The Waqf Amendment Act 2025 is unjust and deeply insensitive to the sentiments of the Muslim community. It must be repealed immediately to restore trust and communal peace,” he said.
Meanwhile, two prominent organisations—the All India Tanzeem Insaaf (AITI) and the All Manipur Democratic Students’ Organisation (AMDSO)—have also voiced strong opposition to the Bill.
AITI National Secretary Md. Islaoddin urged people from all religious backgrounds to stand united against divisive policies. “This Act is a clear example of religion-based politics. We must rise above communal lines and safeguard the secular fabric of our country,” he said.
AMDSO echoed similar sentiments, calling for nationwide awareness and urging the government to prioritise constitutional values over political agendas.
