KOLKATA: Protesters flooded the streets of Kolkata and Ahmedabad on Friday, rallying against the recently passed Waqf Amendment Bill.
The demonstrations, which began after Friday namaz, saw large crowds blocking key city roads and raising slogans against the legislation, which has sparked nationwide controversy.
Various Muslim organisations in Ahmedabad also staged protests, opposing the bill’s provisions.
The bill, passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 votes in favor and 95 against, had earlier cleared the Lok Sabha with 288 MPs supporting it and 232 opposing. It now awaits President Droupadi Murmu’s assent to become law.
Key changes introduced in the bill include reducing the mandatory contribution of Waqf institutions to Waqf boards from 7% to 5% and mandating state-appointed auditors for institutions earning above ₹1 lakh. Additionally, it proposes a centralized portal for managing Waqf properties to improve transparency.
A major provision ensures that women receive their inheritance before any Waqf declarations, offering protections for widows, divorced women, and orphans. The bill also restores pre-2013 rules, allowing Muslims practicing their faith for at least five years to dedicate property to Waqf.
Supporters argue the bill enhances transparency and safeguards women’s rights, while critics view it as an infringement on religious autonomy.
(With agency inputs)
