Student Bodies Slam Silent MLAs on WAQF Amendment Act, Demand Public Clarification

Imphal, April 9: In a joint press conference held today at the Manipur Press Club, the All Manipur Muslim Students’ Organisation (AMMSO-HQ) and the Minorities Students’ Association (MSA) called out the silence of Muslim MLAs and other elected representatives over the contentious WAQF Amendment Act 2025. Leaders from both associations demanded that legislators clarify their stance on the Act, which has sparked outrage and fear among sections of the Muslim community in Manipur.

Addressing the media, MSA President Ph. Ijuj Ahmed expressed disappointment that despite days of ongoing protests led by AMMSO and MSA, there has been no clear response from two of the three Meitei Pangal MLAs in the Manipur Legislative Assembly—Abdul Nasir (Lilong AC) and Asabuddin (Jiribam AC).

“It’s heartbreaking that our own representatives are silent. We have three MLAs from the Pangal community, and yet, only Sheikh Noorul Hassan (Kshetrigao AC) has spoken up. We sincerely appreciate him for his courage and clarity. But what about the others?” Ahmed asked.

Particularly targeting Abdul Nasir, who is also the Chairman of the WAQF Board of Manipur, Ahmed questioned, “You are the Chairman of the WAQF Board—why haven’t you made your position public? Are party interests more important than the needs of your community? Or are you protecting personal interests while the community suffers?”

He expressed grave concern over the implications of the WAQF Amendment Act, stating, “Our kabarstans, madrassas, and other community properties are at stake. Yet, our leaders have not even raised their voices. This silence is appalling.”

Ahmed went further to question Muslim representatives and workers affiliated with political parties that have been perceived as anti-Muslim. “The community wants to know your position. What is keeping you from speaking up? Is the plight of minority Muslims so unimportant to you that you would rather protect your political ambitions than speak for your people?”

In a strong message directed at all MLAs representing constituencies with significant Muslim populations, Ahmed named the following 19 Assembly Constituencies: Moirang AC, Kumbi AC, Bishnupur AC, Hiyanglam AC, Mayang Imphal AC, Kakching AC, Heirok AC, Wangjing Tentha AC, Khangabok AC, Wangkhem AC, Thoubal AC, Andro AC, Keirao AC, Khurai AC, Wangkhei AC, Wangoi AC, Khundrakpam AC, Naoriya Pakhanglakpa AC, and Wabagai AC.

“MLAs from these constituencies must publicly clarify their stance on this matter. If they fail to do so, we will visit and ask them directly,” he warned.

He concluded by urging all elected representatives to act in accordance with the people’s will rather than their party’s interests, emphasizing the critical role they play in shaping the community’s future.

AMMSO-HQ President Imtiyas Heibokmayum also addressed the gathering and condemned the political parties that supported the bill in Parliament. “This is not just a Muslim issue. The WAQF Amendment Act has far-reaching consequences that could impact other communities as well. Political parties, their candidates, and elected members must explain to the people where they stand.”

Imtiyas called upon the citizens of Manipur to stand in solidarity and participate in upcoming protests. “This is a collective fight for justice, transparency, and the protection of constitutional rights. We appeal to the people of Manipur to join us in the movement,” he said.

The joint press meet highlighted growing concerns within the community and called for greater accountability and transparency from elected representatives on the WAQF Amendment Act.