Assam CM Bars Protests Against Waqf Act, Urges Opponents to Approach Court
Himanta Biswa Sarma warns against street demonstrations, stating that the matter should be taken to court instead
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has sparked a political debate over the right to protest, stating that his government will not permit any demonstrations against the amended Waqf Act, and has urged those opposed to the law to seek redress through the courts. Sarma told reporters that while people are free to support or oppose the Act, no protests or street demonstrations will be allowed.
His statement comes a week after several protesters were detained by the police in central and western Assam. These individuals were en route to Guwahati to stage a protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, organized by the All Assam Minority Students Union. The issue gained further attention when a protest rally against the new law turned violent in Silchar, southern Assam, on Sunday. Protesters reportedly threw stones at police officers attempting to disperse the crowd.
Referring to the upcoming Supreme Court hearing on the matter, Sarma said, “If anyone has something to say in favor or against the Act, they can approach the court. The judges will ensure the matter is discussed properly.”
He warned, “If some people take to the streets in opposition to the Act, others in support will also come out, leading to conflict. We don’t want such disturbances in Assam. We must all maintain brotherly relations and focus on the state’s progress.”
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2024, which received presidential assent on April 5, 2024, and came into effect on April 8, 2024, introduces significant changes to the administration of Waqf properties in India. The amendments include provisions for greater government oversight, the appointment of non-Muslims to Waqf boards, restrictions on property donations, and changes to the functioning of Waqf tribunals.
These changes have raised concerns among Muslim organizations and political groups, who argue that the amendments undermine the autonomy of Waqf institutions and threaten the preservation of Muslim religious and cultural heritage.