Protests Erupt in Manipur Over Waqf Bill, Residence of BJP Leader Set Ablaze

Violence Erupts in Manipur Over Waqf Amendment Act

In a troubling turn of events, the house of Asker Ali, the BJP Minority Morcha’s Manipur president, was set on fire by a mob late on Sunday evening. The attack was allegedly carried out in response to Ali’s support for the Waqf Amendment Act. Protests erupted in various Muslim pockets of the state following the passage of the controversial bill in parliament.

Protests and Rallies

More than 5,000 people participated in a rally held at the national highway no 102 in Lilong area of Thoubal district. Paramilitary and additional forces were deployed to the spot to maintain law and order. The rally proceeded through Aliya Madrasah area to Lilong Haoreibi, tightly guarded by security forces. Lilong is known to have the highest population of Muslims in Manipur.

Social Unrest and Symbolic Protests

Symbolic protests were organized in different Muslim pockets after the noon prayer, with participants shouting slogans and carrying festoons. Security forces were stationed in various Muslim areas, leading community members to perceive it as an attempt to suppress their right to peaceful protest.

Minor scuffles between security forces and protesters were reported in some areas, including Thoubal’s Irong Chesaba. Despite tensions, no major incidents have been reported so far. Social worker and community leader Sakir Ahmed spoke out against the Waqf Amendment Bill, stating that it goes against the principles of the Indian Constitution and is unacceptable to the community.

Continued Unrest

Symbolic protests have also been reported in Kshatri Awang Leikai, Kairang Muslim, and Kiyamgei Muslim areas in Imphal East, as well as in Sora in Bishnupur District. The situation remains tense as community members express their dissent through peaceful means.