Nationwide Protest Looms as AIMPLB Opposes Waqf Amendment Bill

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) plans a peaceful, nationwide campaign if the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 is not withdrawn, with a protest scheduled at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on March 17, asserting that the bill sows discord between communities.

In a firm declaration on Tuesday, the spokesperson for the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas, vowed that a 'democratic' and 'peaceful' nationwide campaign would ensue should the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 not be rescinded. The AIMPLB has been vocal in its opposition, advocating for the government's withdrawal of the bill, which they believe undermines communal harmony.

The focus of the protest is set for March 17 at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, as confirmed by Ilyas during a press conference. He accused the government of fostering division between Hindus and Muslims. Initially, the AIMPLB had intended to hold a protest on March 13; however, it coincided with the festival of Holi. As such, the demonstration was rescheduled to ensure greater participation.

Highlighting the issues surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, Ilyas argued that it jeopardizes unregistered Waqf properties, such as mosques and burial grounds, by stripping their protection. The bill, intended to address corruption and mismanagement within the Waqf Act of 1995 through reforms like digitization and transparency, has spurred significant controversy and resistance from the AIMPLB and its supporters.

(With inputs from agencies.)