New Delhi: The All-India Muslim Personal Law Board has declared the April 30 “Lights Off” or “Batti Gul” protest a grand success. The protest was against the new waqf law, which the Muslim community has opposed since the bill was introduced last year.
Dr. S.Q.R. Ilyas, Board spokesperson, issued a statement on Thursday. He said the protest got widespread support from all over India.
“Reports from many regions are very encouraging,” he said. “Muslim homes, shops, markets, factories, and business centers went dark for 15 minutes from 9 to 9:15 pm. Even mosques switched off lights during night prayers. People of all sects — Shia, Sunni, Deobandi, and Barelvi — participated actively. Some who had opposed the protest earlier also joined in. It showed a united stand and deep hope for a better future.”
Dr. Ilyas stressed that the blackout sent a strong message to the Centre. “The Muslim community is united against the new law,” he said. “The government should realize those it trusted don’t represent the community. It must now admit its mistake and cancel the unjust waqf amendments. These changes violate fundamental rights and the Constitution.”
He thanked everyone who joined. “On behalf of the Board, I thank Indian Muslims, minorities, civil society, Dalits, Adivasis, and OBC groups. Your support and unity made this event successful. We are already seeing the results. I trust you’ll stay with us until the illegal amendments are withdrawn.”
