Manipur Unites in Uproar: Thousands Rally Across the State as Communities, Leaders, and Youths Demand Repeal of WAQF Amendment Act, 2025
Mass rallies and political pushback intensify across Mayang Imphal and Santhel
Imphal, April 15, 2025:
Public anger over the recently passed WAQF Amendment Act 2025 continues to escalate in Manipur, with back-to-back mass protests held on April 13 and 14. The protests drew thousands of participants, including political figures, civil society organisations, religious leaders, and members of the public, who denounced the Act as anti-minority and unconstitutional.
April 14: Mayang Imphal Sees Massive Turnout Amid Rain
A huge protest rally was held on April 14 at Mayang Imphal, organised by the Joint Coordinating Body of Mayai Lambi Including Wabagai Assembly Constituency. Despite heavy rains, thousands, including large numbers of women, marched from Mayang Imphal Shakti Khongnang to Mayang Imphal Bengoon Bazar, carrying placards and chanting slogans like:
“Down Down BJP!”
“Waqf Amendment Act is against Islam!”
“Narendra Modi Down Down!”
“Down Down JD(U)!”
“Down Down Nitish Kumar!”
“Down Down Chandrababu Naidu!”
“We will live for Islam, we will die for Islam”
Mufti Azemuddin Sheikh,a member of Bengoon-e-Mayang Imphal, while addressing the rally on April 14, stated:
“We are protesting here against the Indian government’s recently passed Act, which is clearly aimed against the Muslim community. This is not just the voice of Mayang Imphal, but the voice of all the people who have a clear heart and believe in truth and justice — from every corner of Hindustan.
This WAQF Amendment Act should never be enforced. If the government proceeds, the country will head into a fiery fit. If the government truly wants peace and development, they must stop this kind of discrimination against Muslim minorities and end actions that harm our basic constitutional rights.
The Muslims of this state, and this country, will not stay silent when the government tries to take away WAQF properties and the rights of Muslim communities. We will stand firm against such injustice.”
AMMSO (All Manipur Muslim Students’ Organisation) also used the occasion to call out elected representatives. Its president, Imtiyaz Heibokmayum, urged the remaining Muslim leaders and MLAs to publicly clarify their stance.
“We urge the two remaining Muslim leaders, including former MLA Md. Antas Khan, to come forward and clearly state their position. The Congress and NPP have already declared their support for the people’s protest against the Waqf Amendment Act 2025. The same appeal goes to the 19 MLAs we had previously reached out to—please make your stand known to the public. Until then, our protests will continue in the same democratic manner,” he said.
Dr. Isaque Ali who also participated at the protest stated, “We are here today to protest the Waqf Amendment Act 2025—an oppressive legislation imposed by the BJP-led central government, which has repeatedly shown an anti-minority, anti-Muslim bias. This Act continues the agenda of the RSS and BJP to systematically undermine the rights of Indian Muslims. Even a layperson, on examining the Act, can see its malicious intent: to seize sacred lands dedicated by our forefathers in Allah’s name. But we will not allow that to happen.”
He added, “The government claims it is doing justice to common Muslims, but this is a government that doesn’t have a single Muslim MP in the Lok Sabha. If they can’t ensure minimal representation, what can we expect from them? Their claim of protecting Muslim interests is not only baseless but politically immature. We, the Muslims, will ensure our Waqf properties are protected.”
Addressing allegations of corruption, he said, “Yes, there have been discrepancies in Waqf management, as in many departments. But why is the government selectively targeting Muslim lands while ignoring widespread corruption elsewhere? This focus on Waqf alone is unjustified. The diagnosis may be correct, but the treatment is brutal—a direct assault on our religious rights and freedom.”
He concluded, “We will continue to fight this Act with all our strength. We will defend our constitutional rights and force the government to repeal this anti-Muslim law—sooner or later.”
The protest also saw the presence of Rohan Philem, a Meitei cyclist and activist, who stood in solidarity with the Meitei Pangal Muslim community.
“This is about brotherhood, not religion or politics,” he said. “We, the Meiteis, have long lived with the Meitei Pangals as one. I came here today to offer moral support and stand with my brothers and sisters.”
Mayengbam Ranjit Singh , NPP candidate for Wabagai Assembly Constituency 2022 also participated in the protest rally.
At a press conference the same day, Rabi Khan, Vice Chairman of the Legal Department, MPCC, reiterated the Congress party’s strong opposition:
“This Act violates Articles 14, 15, 25, and 26 of the Constitution. Our representatives—Md. Fajur Rahim and Md. Amin Shah—have already left for Delhi and will file a case in the Supreme Court.
BJP and NDA used their majority to pass this Act, but just because something is passed doesn’t make it right. Let us be clear: this Act undermines secularism and the Constitution’s soul. If the government can trample on Muslims’ rights, what stops them from targeting other minorities—religious or linguistic—in the future?”
He also criticised NDA allies like JDU and NPP, accusing them of double standards:
“They supported the Act in Parliament but are now playing games at the state level. If they truly oppose it, let them send formal letters to the Prime Minister or the alliance chairman. But instead, they’re using civil societies, individuals, or third parties to claim they oppose the Act—just to gain political mileage. Please, don’t do such things. All MLAs themselves must come forward and take a firm stand. Don’t make a mockery of the people by hiding behind others.”
April 13: Santhel and Political Leaders Join the Chorus of Resistance
On April 13, the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) held a press briefing where senior leaders affirmed their commitment to challenge the Act in the Supreme Court and spoke out strongly against the WAQF Amendment Act 2025. The event was addressed by several prominent figures, including CLP Leader Okram Ibobi Singh and MPCC President K. Meghachandra Singh, who both clarified the party’s official stance.
Okram Ibobi Singh, former Chief Minister and current CLP leader, stated:
“We are here today to make it absolutely clear that the Congress party stands in complete opposition to the WAQF Amendment Act 2025. India is a secular country, and this Act goes against the secular values enshrined in our Constitution.
The current NDA-led government, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has once again shown its majoritarian approach by forcibly passing this Act using their majority in Parliament. This is not just about one religious community—it is about the very idea of India. When a government starts targeting one minority, it sets a dangerous precedent that may lead to the oppression of others as well.
We have opposed this bill from day one. The entire Opposition stood firm in Parliament, but they used their brute majority to push it through. Even so, we are not giving up. We are now taking the battle to the Supreme Court. Legal steps have already been initiated at the national level by the All India Congress Committee (AICC), and we at MPCC are fully backing it.”
K. Meghachandra, MPCC President, expanded on the constitutional concerns of the Act. He said:
“This WAQF Amendment Act 2025 is totally unconstitutional and illegal. It is in clear violation of Articles 14, 15, 25, and 26 of the Indian Constitution—particularly in relation to the rights of India’s Muslim citizens.
The inclusion of non-Muslims in WAQF Boards, along with excessive government interference in WAQF properties donated in good faith, is deeply problematic. These provisions are not just administrative—they strike at the heart of individual religious freedoms and the autonomy of community institutions.
The Act disregards the fundamental rights of the Muslim minority, and therefore, we as a party are united in opposing it. Such legislation not only harms the constitutional spirit but also sows distrust among different communities. This is a dangerous move, and we urge the central government to repeal it immediately.
Our party will continue to oppose it with full force through democratic and legal means. We have already sent two of our party leaders, Md. Fajur Rahim and Md. Amin Shah, to Delhi to initiate the legal proceedings in the Supreme Court. Our resolve remains strong—we will fight for what is right.”
Dr. Ratan Kumar, former Minister and leader from Mayang Imphal Assembly Constituency, also addressed the press in a separarte press meet, voicing strong opposition to the WAQF Amendment Act.
He stated: “The recently passed WAQF Amendment Act is controversial and harmful. As a member of the Congress party, I want to make it clear—we are against this Act and we condemn it. Leaders from the Opposition had been strongly and consistently opposing this bill from the beginning, even before it was passed. Now that it has unfortunately become an Act, we are not backing down. The Indian National Congress (INC), in coordination with other like-minded parties, has already moved to the Supreme Court to challenge this law.
For us at MPCC, just as our CLP leader Okram Ibobi Singh and MPCC President Meghachandra have said, we are ready to take all necessary legal and political steps to have this Act repealed.
Personally, I want to emphasize that this Act contains controversial provisions that clearly go against the basic fundamental rights of Indian citizens—particularly Muslims. The idea of allowing non-Muslims in WAQF Boards and the central government’s interference in WAQF properties deeply disturbs the principles of our Constitution. It violates the very essence of unity in diversity and the secular values that India was built on.
That’s why the Congress party stands firmly against it. We will continue to fight this Act, both in court and among the people, until justice is restored and this dangerous law is repealed.”
The day also saw a massive protest rally organised by Santhel United Development Committee (SUDC), Santhel & Hangul Jamiat, ASWDA, HUDC, and All Santhel Clubs. Protesters marched from Santhel Idigah Playground to Sekmaijing, shouting slogans like:
“No to WAQF Amendment Act 2025!”
“No Non-Muslim WAQF Control!”
“We Reject Encroachment Takeovers!”
“Stop Targeting Muslims!”
In a fiery address, Sayed Ahmed, Co-convenor of SUDC, declared:
“The WAQF Amendment Act 2025 is a targeted attempt to suppress the rights of Muslims in this country. It is not just a legal reform—it is an attack on our identity, our culture, and our religious freedom. By allowing non-Muslims into WAQF Boards and enabling government interference, the Act violates Articles 14, 25, and 26 of our Constitution. We are deeply hurt by this Act and demand its immediate repeal. We urge all secular and peace-loving citizens to join us in opposing this injustice. If the government thinks we will remain silent, they are wrong. We will continue to resist—peacefully but firmly—until this Act is repealed.”
At the conclusion of the rally, effigies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah were burned, reflecting the rising intensity of public anger.
Sakir Ahmed, Md. Fajur Rahim, and Md. Sikander—three rival candidates from the 2022 Manipur Legislative Assembly election also came together in a rare show of unity at the Santhel protest, standing shoulder to shoulder against the Waqf Amendment Act 2025.
April 12: Protests Erupt at Lilong and Paobitek Against WAQF Amendment Act 2025
Protests erupted at Lilong organised by Anjuman-Islah -E- Muasharah with a collective mass protest rally which saw fifty thousand people participation. The rally started from Lilong Dam and Liliong Turel Ahanbi Darul Uloom and ended at Lilong Bazaar’s Bari Jama Masjid
Md Islaoddin, Vice President ,UMPC Manipur , who is also the National Secretary of All India Tanzeem-E-Insaaf (AITI), addressed media persons: “Today in all places of Bharat, secular political parties and all minorities of Bharat like Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, etc., all came together and are protesting against the WAQF Amendment Act in different places. So, under Anjuman Islah-e-Musahara, we had come together at Lilong to protest against such Acts with different organizations of the state under the theme that the people cannot accept such Act.
The WAQF and its related works have existed here in since the time of kings, like from the period of Muhammad Ghori. A committee even existed during the era of the British. After India’s independence, it became an Act in 1954 and 1955. This is how the WAQF Board began to exist. WAQF is used to uplift the poor and widows for their welfare — in building madrasas, masjids, qabarstans, etc., where it cannot be sold or bought.
Now under this Act, non-Muslims will be added to the WAQF Board, and if there arises land ownership issues, instead of turning to Section 40 of the WAQF Tribunal, the DC has the right to intervene and claim all disputed lands. Such a black Act brought to be enforced by the President is against the Constitution’s fundamental rights and provisions like Articles 14, 25, 26, etc.
It is an Act against the soul of the Constitution of India. So, we are protesting due to these reasons — to show that the Muslims of Manipur also stand against this draconian Act.”
He further called for all communities to stand together with them and stressed: “It might be the Muslims’ issue today, but it could be others’ turn tomorrow. So let us all stand together.”
In continuation of the ongoing wave of protests, the Minority Students’ Association (MSA), Paobitek Development Forum (PDF), and All Manipur Muslim Students’ Organisation (AMMSO) jointly organized a peaceful rally at Paobitek, expressing strong opposition to the WAQF Amendment Act 2025. The protest witnessed participation from concerned citizens of all ages, united in their demand for the immediate repeal of the Act.
Ijush Ahmed, President of MSA, stated: “In line with previous demonstrations, today’s rally is jointly organized by AMMSO, MSA, and the Paobitek Development Forum along with anguished citizens. Our collective demand is clear — repeal this unconstitutional Act.
What we want to ask today is — where are the three Muslim MLAs of Manipur? Why are you silent? Why haven’t you stated your stand clearly on this matter? And to the 19 other MLAs who have Muslim voters in their constituencies — please make your positions known. We are not asking for statements from intermediaries or through third parties. Make your own decisions and take responsibility. This is a time for clarity and courage.”
The Vice President of Paobitek Development Forum also gave a passionate speech: “Even to this day, we are not treated equally, and this Act is yet another example of the discrimination we face. It goes directly against Islam and the teachings of the Holy Quran.
If this trend of ignoring public resistance and enforcing such unjust laws continues, we are prepared to sacrifice our lives for the cause. And to the Muslim MLAs who have failed to speak out for their community — remember, when you stand before Allah, you will be answerable. The pain and heartbreak we feel now will one day weigh heavily on your conscience.
Right now, it may be Muslims who are being targeted, but tomorrow it could be other religious communities. That is why I appeal to our brothers and sisters of all faiths — stand with us. This is not just our fight, it’s a fight for the Constitution, for justice, and for the rights of all.”
Youth Wing Lilong Requested MP Bimol Akoijam to Challenge WAQF Amendment Act in Supreme Court: On April 12, the Youth Wing Lilong, a youth-based organization from Thoubal district, submitted a formal appeal to Inner Manipur MP Dr. Bimol Akoijam, urging him to take legal steps against the WAQF Amendment Act, 2025. The group expressed deep concerns over the law, especially its impact on the independence of Muslim charitable and religious institutions.
In their submission, the Youth Wing highlighted what they viewed as a serious imbalance—while Hindu religious trusts continued to enjoy administrative autonomy, the WAQF institutions, they argued, were now at risk of excessive state interference under the amended Act.
They flagged potential violations of constitutional rights, specifically referencing Articles 26, 29, and 30, which protect religious freedoms and minority rights. The group feared that the Act could result in overreach by the government, weakening the foundation of minority-led institutions and eroding long-standing community rights.
To strengthen their case, the Youth Wing had prepared and submitted a set of supporting materials, including a legal memorandum, expert analyses, and community resolutions. They called for a judicial review of the Act and appealed to MP Bimol Akoijam to take their concerns to the Supreme Court.
Emphasizing the need for democratic consultation and fair representation, they urged the MP to stand with affected communities and act swiftly to safeguard constitutional values and the autonomy of minority institutions.
NPP Manipur Vice President Voices Support for Repeal of WAQF Amendment Act: On April 9, NPP Manipur Vice President Urikhinbam Ramesh expressed solidarity with the Muslim community of Manipur over the controversial WAQF Amendment Act. In a press briefing, he called the Act inconsistent with Muslim values and pledged full support for the ongoing protests. He urged the community not to lose hope, drawing parallels with the successful farmers’ protest that led to the repeal of farm laws in the past.
Ramesh assured that the matter would be escalated to the NPP’s National President and Meghalaya Chief Minister to push for changes to the Act. He emphasized the importance of united resistance to ensure the law is repealed.
The NPP Manipur State President, Yumnam Joykumar, also spoke on April 11, saying, “The NPP Manipur State totally rejects the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025. We do not support it, and we are against it.”
“From the NPP’s side, we fully support Noorul Hassan’s action of filing against the Act in the Supreme Court, and we stand solidly behind him. His actions are more than enough for the party to show its strong opposition to this Act. The party totally rejects and stands firmly against it.”
Over the past three days, protests across Manipur have intensified against the WAQF Amendment Act 2025, with united voices from political leaders, civil groups, and citizens calling for its repeal and vowing to defend constitutional and minority rights.