A large-scale protest was held in Patna on Wednesday as part of a nationwide agitation led by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Thousands of people from Bihar and across the country gathered, condemning the Bill as unconstitutional and an attack on Muslim rights.
Protesters Oppose Government’s Alleged Control Over Waqf Properties
Demonstrators accused the government of attempting to seize Waqf properties that were historically dedicated for public welfare.
One of the protesters stated:
“People from every religion and caste have joined in the protest. People are saying that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill is against the Constitution. We are not saying this based on emotion but on objectivity. This bill was prepared hurriedly without proper thought and caters to those who are enemies of Waqf.”
Countering Yogi Adityanath’s Statement on Waqf Misuse
The protest was further intensified by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s remarks that Waqf properties have never been used for welfare but have instead been sold or misused.
A protester responded:
“It is strange that the CM is saying this. In every state, the Waqf Board is created by the government, and its chairman is appointed by the state government. CM Yogi has been ruling for nearly 10 years—who selected the chairman? If Waqf lands are being sold, it is the government itself facilitating these sales.”
BJP Accuses AIMPLB of Politicizing the Issue
BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, who heads the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Bill, criticized the protests, calling them politically motivated.
“The way AIMPLB is doing politics in the name of Waqf, they are trying to mislead minorities and Muslims of the country,” Pal stated.
He further pointed out that the Bill has not yet been passed, questioning the motives behind the protests.
“Right now, the law hasn’t even come, but based on planned politics, they are already heading to Patna,” he added.
Lalu Prasad Yadav and Tejashwi Yadav Join Protests
RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav and Bihar’s Leader of the Opposition, Tejashwi Yadav, also participated in the protests, extending support to AIMPLB.
Tejashwi Yadav assured protestors:
“Our party and leader Lalu Yadav stand firmly with you in your fight against the unconstitutional Waqf (Amendment) Bill.”
What the Waqf (Amendment) Bill Proposes
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aims to introduce reforms such as:
✔ Digitization of Waqf properties
✔ Enhanced audits for transparency
✔ Legal mechanisms to reclaim illegally occupied properties
The government claims the Bill ensures Waqf properties are used for public welfare, benefiting both the Muslim community and the nation. However, AIMPLB and opposition leaders argue that it is an attempt to seize community assets under the guise of reform.