Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has sparked political debate on the right to protest, saying his government will not allow any demonstrations on the revised WAQF bill and urged those who oppose the law to seek remedies through the court. Sarma told reporters that protests or street demonstrations are not allowed, although people are free to support or oppose the bill.
His statement comes a week after several protesters were detained by police. These people were heading to Guwahati to protest against the WAQF (Amendment) bill organized by all Assam minority student unions. The issue caught the attention when protests against the new law turned violent on Sunday in Silchar, south of Assam. Protesters reportedly threw stones at police officers trying to disperse the crowd.
Sarma mentioned the upcoming Supreme Court hearing, “If anyone is persuasive or objecting to the bill, they can approach the court. The judge will ensure proper discussion on the matter.”
He warned: “If some people are on the streets against the bill, others will also have conflicts. We do not want this interference in Assam. We all have to maintain a brotherly relationship and focus on the progress of the state.”
The WAQF (Amendment) Act, in 2024, accepted the president’s consent on April 5, 2024 and came into effect on April 8, 2024, making significant changes to the management of WAQF properties in India. These amendments include provisions for greater government oversight, appointment of boards of non-Muslim committees, restrictions on property contributions, and changes to the operation of the WAQF tribunal.
These changes have attracted the attention of Muslim organizations and political groups who believe the amendment undermines the autonomy of WAQF institutions and threaten to protect Muslim religious and cultural heritage.
