Stones thrown at police during protest against Waqf Act in Assam
A protest against the Waqf Amendment Act turned violent in Silchar, Assam, as protesters threw stones at the police, leading to clashes and damage to property. The protest, which was attended by around 300-400 people, was held on Sunday and affected areas included Chamragudam, Berenga, and old Lakhipur road areas.
The protesters, who were mainly Muslims, were demonstrating against the Waqf Amendment Act, which was passed by the central government earlier this year. The Act aims to streamline the management of Waqf properties, which are considered sacred by Muslims. However, many have criticized the Act, saying it is an attempt to dilute the rights of Muslims and take away their control over Waqf properties.
The protesters who gathered in Silchar were from various organizations, including the All Assam Minority Students’ Union (AAMSU) and the Silchar Waqf Board. They raised slogans and demanded the withdrawal of the Waqf Amendment Act, saying it was an attack on the rights of Muslims.
As the protest turned violent, police were deployed to the area to control the situation. However, the protesters refused to back down and continued to throw stones at the police. The police, in turn, used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd.
The violence resulted in damage to several vehicles and property in the area. Many people were also injured in the clashes, although the exact number of injuries is not known.
The protesters have warned that they will intensify their protest if the Waqf Amendment Act is not withdrawn. “We will not back down until the Act is withdrawn,” said a protester who did not want to be named.
The Waqf Amendment Act has been a contentious issue in Assam and other parts of the country. Many Muslims have criticized the Act, saying it is an attempt to take away their control over Waqf properties and dilute their rights.
On the other hand, the government has defended the Act, saying it is necessary to modernize the management of Waqf properties and ensure their proper utilization. The Act also aims to bring transparency and accountability to the management of Waqf properties.
The violence in Silchar is the latest in a series of protests against the Waqf Amendment Act. Similar protests have been held in other parts of the country, including Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
The Assam government has appealed for calm and has promised to look into the grievances of the protesters. “We understand the concerns of the protesters and will try to address them,” said a government spokesperson.
The Waqf Amendment Act is a significant issue in India, as it affects the rights of millions of Muslims who rely on Waqf properties for their livelihood. The Act has sparked widespread protests and debate, with many calling for its withdrawal.
In conclusion, the protest against the Waqf Amendment Act in Silchar, Assam, turned violent as protesters threw stones at the police, leading to clashes and damage to property. The protesters have warned that they will intensify their protest if the Act is not withdrawn. The issue is a contentious one, with many Muslims criticizing the Act and the government defending it.
