– Mohamed Talha Siddibapa
Dakshina Kannada: In what is now being called Karnataka’s largest-ever public protest in defence of Waqf, nearly 80,000 people filled the sprawling Adyar-Kannur grounds, stretching over a kilometre-wide area in a disciplined and powerful demonstration against the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025.
Organised under the united banner of Muslim organisations and supported by civil society voices, the protest was a vibrant yet peaceful assertion of democratic rights – and a major moment in India’s unfolding constitutional narrative.
Democracy’s Litmus Test: Will the Modi Government Listen or Dictate?
As the sea of protestors raised their voices with posters, placards, and slogans, one unspoken question loomed large:
Will the Modi government listen to this public outcry, or will it continue on a path seen by many as increasingly autocratic?
Speaker after speaker framed the issue as a constitutional crisis – not a community grievance. The crowd stood not just for Waqf, but for India’s pluralism, rule of law, and democratic accountability.
“This Law is a Constitutional Invasion” – Protesters Speak Through Posters
From Shah Garden to Padil, Arkula, and all along NH-66, thousands marched with placards reading:
- “This Law: A Constitutional Aggression”
- “Save Waqf, Save Constitution”
- “Waqf is Our Heritage, Not for Sale”
- “Don’t Politicise Waqf – Resist Fascism”
The slogans revealed a deeper concern – that this legislation is not just about property, but about eroding rights and marginalising minorities under the guise of law.
Historic Mobilisation with Deep Civic Spirit
What made the protest truly historic was not just its size, but its discipline and organisation. Over 2,000 volunteers ensured order. Water bottles were removed, roads were kept accessible, and despite mobile networks being jammed, coordination remained seamless.
Even as temperatures soared, the sprawling rally stretched over a kilometre, filling roads, playgrounds, and even rooftops. Local businesses downed shutters in solidarity, while residents offered water and support to the participants.
Stage Echoes with Resistance and Constitutional Faith
Maulana Shafi Sa’adi, former President of Karnataka State Waqf Board, invoked history:
“When the Shah Bano verdict challenged our beliefs, we united to uphold the Quran. Today, we are here again – for Waqf and for justice.”
Abdul Azeez Darimi of Karnataka Muslim Okkoota warned:
“Those who mocked Muslims as ‘puncture-wallahs’ are now puncturing the Constitution itself. But this human ocean says – we will not be silenced.”
Abdul Khader Musliyar of Bambar said:
“This isn’t a Muslim issue. It’s a national issue. Mamata Banerjee has rightly refused to implement this law. We need such courage everywhere.”
A Protest of People, Not Politicians
Notable citizens who joined the gathering included:
- Former Mayor K. Ashraf
- Business leaders like Zakaria Jokatte and Sharif Whitestone
- Retired police officers, engineers, teachers, women, and youth
- Scholars and Ulama like Mehboob Sakhafi, Usthanul Faizi, and Dr. M.S.M. Abdul Rasheed
Abdul Nasir Lakkistaar, DK District Waqf Advisory Committee Chairperson, stated:
“This Act is not for public good. It’s for capitalist control. We will not surrender even an inch of Waqf land.”
Not Against Anyone – But For Everyone’s Rights
Speakers reminded the crowd that this protest was not against any religion or party.
“This is not Hindu-Muslim,” said Dr. Abdul Rasheed, “This is about the Constitution. It is about protecting what makes India, India.”
The message was clear: Waqf is not communal property – it is public trust. It funds orphanages, colleges, hospitals, hostels, and community welfare. Undermining it is to undermine public service and minority empowerment.
Final Word: This is a People’s Verdict
The April 19 rally will go down as a landmark moment – not just in Karnataka’s history, but in the nationwide movement to defend constitutional values.
If democracy is to remain meaningful, the government must take this as a moral and political verdict. For now, civil society has spoken. Loud and clear.
