Mangaluru: A massive protest march was organized in Mangaluru against the Waqf Amendment Bill, drawing the participation of prominent Muslim scholars and religious leaders. The march, described as historic, saw thousands of protestors taking to the streets, demanding the government to revoke the controversial bill.

The demonstrators alleged that the amendment was part of a larger conspiracy against Muslims in India. They questioned, "Why are we always trapped in problems like these?" and claimed that the bill was a "hidden agenda" targeting Muslim properties. They also accused the central government of selling off national assets such as airports and ports to private entities and now setting its sights on Waqf properties.

During the protest, speakers highlighted historical instances where Hindu and Muslim rulers contributed to places of worship for different communities. They cited the example of Mysore’s Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar, who helped in the construction of a mosque, and Tipu Sultan, who granted land for temples. One of the speakers remarked, "Muslims never surrendered to the Portuguese, Dutch, British, or the French. Even when asked to give the key to independence, the descendants of Muhammad Ali refused."

Strong Stand by Muslim Religious Leaders

Dr. M.S.M. Abdur Rasheed Zani Kamil Sakafi, the Secretary of Karnataka Ulama Coordination, stated, "We are fasting in the holy month of Ramadan while also fighting for our rights. We did not seek police protection, nor are volunteers managing the protest. Everyone is participating out of their own will. We do not need weapons—our weapon is the Indian Constitution. We demand our rights based on religious freedom and expect nothing else from the government."

Syed Ismail Tanjal Ujire, President of the Karnataka Ulama Federation, presided over the event and asserted, "Muslims’ rights cannot be taken away. We are prepared to make any sacrifice necessary to protect our rights."

Other speakers included Samasta Central Mushawara member Usthanul Faizi Todaru and SKSSF State General Secretary Anees Kausari, who emphasized the need for unity in the struggle against the bill.

Unity and Patriotism Mark the Protest

The march, organized by the Milagres group, began with a special prayer led by Syed Ameer Tambal. The event was inaugurated by Zanu Ulama M. Abdul Hameed Musliyar Mani. Several notable religious figures and scholars also participated.

National Flag Dominates the March

One of the most remarkable aspects of the protest was that no political party or organizational flags were carried during the march. Instead, the national flag of India was prominently displayed throughout, symbolizing the constitutional and democratic nature of the struggle. The slogan "Only the Constitution inspires our fight" echoed throughout the streets of Mangaluru, making the protest a powerful demonstration of unity and patriotism.