In a massive show of dissent, thousands of Muslims gathered in Chennai on October 5 to protest against the proposed Waqf Amendment Bill 2024.
The demonstration, organised by the Federation of Tamil Nadu Islamic Organisations and various political parties, took place near the Rajaratnam Stadium in Egmore.
Maulana Basulur Rahim Mujathidi, General Secretary of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, joined the protest, which was led by Federation President Maulana PA Khaja Moinudeen Bakavi.
Several prominent political figures, including Trichy Siva, DMK’s floor leader in the Rajya Sabha; K Selvaperuntagai, President of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee; Dr. Thol Thirumavalavan, President of the Viduthalai Siruthaikal Katchi; R Sachithanandam, MP of the CPI(M); and Ka Subparayan, MP of the Communist Party of India, were also in attendance. Prof MH Jawahirullah, MLA and President of Tamil Nadu Muslim Munnetra Kazhagam; A S Umer Farooq, General Secretary of the SDPI; Moulvi Haneefa Manbaee, State President of Jamaat-e-Islami; and Dr. Hussain Madavoor addressed the gathering.
Speakers at the event expressed grave concerns over the Bill, arguing that it undermines constitutional rights granted to minorities.
They emphasised that the amendments are discriminatory towards Muslims and weaken protections for Waqf properties by reducing penalties for encroachment.
The protest’s leaders unanimously called for the immediate withdrawal of the Bill, describing its provisions as unconstitutional and a threat to the functioning of Waqf Boards.
The organisers said the protest underscored the growing unrest within the Muslim community over the perceived encroachment on their religious and cultural rights.
