Chikkamagaluru Witnesses Strong Protest Against Waqf Amendment Bill 2025
Chikkamagaluru: A large public gathering under the banner of “Waqf Bachao, Dastoor Bachao Movement” was organized at Azad Park in Chikkamagaluru on Sunday. The event, convened by the district committee of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), turned into a powerful protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025, which speakers alleged was designed to weaken the system of Waqf and seize community-owned endowments.
The protest conference was attended by prominent scholars, community leaders and representatives of different organizations. Speakers warned that the new amendment directly threatens the religious, social, and educational structure of the Muslim community and must be withdrawn at once.
“Waqf is Allah’s Trust, Not Human Property”
Addressing the gathering, Mufti Iftikhar Ahmad Qasmi, President of Jamiat Ulama Karnataka and member of AIMPLB, said that the Muslim community had always faced trials, but this amendment was a deliberate attack on faith, mosques, madrasas, and other religious symbols.
“Waqf is a divine trust, not a human creation. Any attempt to change or interfere in it is unacceptable. If the government refuses to withdraw this unconstitutional law, Muslims will be left with no option but to widen their struggle within the constitutional framework,” he declared. Mufti Qasmi further added that oppressive systems never last long and expressed hope that difficult times would soon pass.
“Muslims Have Always Contributed to the Nation”
Delivering another impassioned speech, Mufti Dr. Maqsood Imran Rashadi, Imam of City Jama Masjid, Bengaluru, reminded that Muslims had always played a crucial role in the development and safeguarding of the country.
He argued that the proposed law was nothing more than an attempt to seize Waqf properties under the cover of legislation. “This black law has to be repealed. Until then, the movement will not stop,” he asserted, calling on the community to remain united and resist divisive forces.
Calls for Unity and Support From Other Communities
Board member Maulana Giyas Ahmad Rashadi encouraged the audience not to lose hope and stressed that faith, patience, and adherence to Shariah were key to overcoming challenges. “No plot to swallow Waqf assets will succeed,” he said.
Significantly, the protest also witnessed solidarity from non-Muslim leaders. Advocate Sudhir Kumar Murli, President of APCr Karnataka, and social activist Angadi Chandru extended their support in Kannada, assuring full cooperation in opposing the bill.
The session began with introductory remarks from Rizwan Khalid, Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami, Chikkamagaluru, while the program was conducted by Mufti Asgar Ali Qasmi. The event concluded with a vote of thanks and a prayer offered by Maulana Khwaja Mohiuddin Rashadi, the convenor of the conference.
A Message to the Government
The massive turnout at Azad Park sent a clear message: the community stands united against any move to weaken the Waqf Board or interfere in its properties. Delegates stressed that the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 is “unconstitutional, unacceptable, and against the interests of minorities,” and pledged to continue the peaceful struggle until the government withdraws it.
