Bidar, Karnataka: A huge protest rally took place in Bidar on Monday against the Waqf Amendment Act 2025. The rally was led by Dr. Abdul Qadeer, Executive Member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) and Convener of the Joint Action Committee, Bidar District. The protest was held as per the instructions of the AIMPLB. People from various faiths—Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, and Dalits—joined the rally in large numbers.
The march began from Jamia Masjid in Bidar. It passed through Gawan Chowk and Shahganj Main Road. It ended at Ambedkar Circle, where a public meeting was held. Despite the extreme heat, thousands gathered. They said the new law harms religious and constitutional rights.
Shops and markets across Bidar remained closed. This included businesses run by Jamiat-e-Quresh, Baghban community, and local shopping centers. The shutdown showed wide support for the protest. The rally reflected growing national dissent against the law. People demanded to protect India’s secular and inclusive values.
Dr. Abdul Qadeer said the government’s interference in Waqf properties is dangerous. He said this protest is not a one-day event. It is the start of a long movement. He promised that protests will continue until the law is withdrawn. He asked silent citizens to speak up. He warned that if ignored, mosques, madrasas, and graveyards may also be targeted. He thanked all religious communities for showing unity.
Minister of State for Local Government and Hajj Affairs, Mr. Muhammad Rahim Khan, also addressed the gathering. He said the issue affects not just Waqf but also the country’s identity and Constitution. He called the amendments arbitrary and discriminatory. He said they violate fundamental rights. He warned that the law aims to remove Muslim control from Waqf property management. He urged the youth to stay united and resist the law.
Maulana Abu Talib Rahmani of AIMPLB said Articles 25 and 26 of the Indian Constitution give religious communities the right to manage their affairs. He said the amendment takes away this right from Muslims. He added that other religious groups like Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Jains, and Buddhists still have this freedom.
The AIMPLB has appealed to the Supreme Court of India. It asked the court to review the amendment. The board wants the court to protect minority rights.
Protesters also condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. They expressed sorrow for the victims and their families. They asked for a detailed investigation and strict punishment for the attackers. They warned against using the incident to spread communal hatred.
Two memorandums were given to the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Bidar. One opposed the Waqf Amendment Act. It said the law hurts Islamic values, cultural freedom, and India’s secular ideals. The second condemned the Pahalgam attack. It asked for justice and requested authorities to stop the misuse of the tragedy for divisive politics.
The event ended with a two-minute silence for the Pahalgam victims. Many leaders were present on stage. These included Bidar City Municipal Council Chairman Mr. Muhammad Ghaus, Maulana Sirajuddin Nizami, Maulana Tassaduq Nadvi, and leaders from Dalit, Sikh, and Kuruba communities.
