Rare political convergence in Tripura in Anti-Waqf Act Rally

Agartala, April 21, 2025 – In a rare political convergence in Tripura, opposition parties – CPIM and Congress – along with BJP’s ally in Tripura, TIPRA Motha rallied protesting against news Waqf Amendment Act at Bishalgarh under the Sepahijala district of Tripura on Sunday.

Raising voice against the Waqf Amendment Act thousands from the Muslim community gathered at Bishalgarh Railway Station on Sunday to protest the contentious Act.

The protestors highlighted concerns about its potential to disrupt communal harmony and undermine religious rights.

The mass rally, organized by the apolitical Jana Adhikar Sangram Parishad, saw participation from prominent political leaders of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPIM), Congress, and the ruling ally TIPRA Motha Party, amplifying the demonstration’s significance in Tripura’s political landscape.

Sources claimed the mass protest rally was attended by approximately 5,000 people. Unlike Kailashahar in the Unakoti District, the rally was peacefully held.

Tight security arrangements were made following recent sporadic incidents during similar anti-Waqf protests in Kailashahar.

Tight security arrangements were made following recent sporadic incidents during similar anti-Waqf protests in Kailashahar.

Protesters, waving the national flag and chanting slogans against the new amendment, expressed their dissent over provisions they labeled as a “black law” threatening communal harmony.

Political leaders Lend Support

The rally drew a diverse array of political figures, reflecting widespread opposition to the Waqf Act amendments. Former Minister and senior CPIM leader Bhanu Lal Saha, TIPRA Motha Party’s minority cell president Shah Alam, and Youth Congress activists Md Sahajahan Islam and Amir Hossain were among the prominent attendees.

Adding legal and political weight, senior advocate Purushottam Roy Barman, who contested the 2023 Ramnagar assembly elections as an independent candidate backed by CPIM and Congress, also addressed the gathering.

I Also Read: Waqf Amendment Act Awareness: How the New Act Aims to Empower Ordinary Muslims l

Speakers at the rally focused on two primary concerns with the amended Waqf Act: the inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf Boards and the abolition of the “Waqf by user” concept.

Critics argued that these changes could destabilize the management of Waqf properties, which are dedicated to religious and charitable purposes within the Muslim community.

Key Objections to the Waqf Act Amendment

The inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf Boards has sparked fears of external interference in the administration of Muslim religious endowments.

Protesters argued that such a move could erode the autonomy of Waqf institutions, which have historically been managed by community representatives.

The abolition of the “Waqf by user” principle was another focal point of criticism. This provision has traditionally allowed properties used for religious purposes over time to be recognized as Waqf assets.

Its removal, according to speakers, could open the door to disputes over such lands, with District Magistrates empowered to designate them as contested properties.

Protesters expressed concerns that administrative officers, often influenced by ruling party pressures, might prioritize political interests over fairness, potentially escalating tensions between majority Hindus and minority Muslims.

Speakers described the amendment as a “recipe for communal discord,” warning that it could embolden frivolous claims on lands used for mosques, graveyards, and other religious purposes.

“If the Waqf by user concept is scrapped, anyone can stake a claim on our sacred spaces, and biased administrative decisions could fuel further division,” they stated.

Robust Security & Peaceful Demonstration

Given the sensitivity of the issue and recent unrest during anti-Waqf protests in Kailashahar, authorities deployed a significant police presence to maintain order.

The security contingent, led by Sepahijala District Superintendent of Police Bijay Debbarma, Additional SP Rajib Sutradhar, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Dulal Dutta, and Bishalgarh Police Station OC Sanjit Sen, included personnel from the Tripura State Rifles (TSR) and paramilitary forces.

Protesters cooperated fully with law enforcement, maintaining discipline throughout the event.

The rally concluded without incident, with organizers emphasizing their commitment to peaceful advocacy.

“This is not just about protecting Waqf properties; it’s about safeguarding our constitutional rights and preserving harmony in Tripura,” said a representative of Jana Adhikar Sangram Parishad.

Broader Context: Waqf Act Controversy

The Waqf (Amendment) Act has ignited debates across India, with critics arguing that it undermines the religious and cultural rights of the Muslim community.

Supporters of the Act, however, claim it aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of Waqf properties, which are estimated to include over 600,000 assets nationwide.

Waqf Act in SC :

According to the Supreme Court Observer website (scobserver.in), a record number of over 65 petitions from the politicians, civil organisation and advocates were filed after Waqf Amendment Bill got President’s ascent.

The website further revealed, six states – Haryana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Assam – approached the Apex Court supporting the Act’s constitutionality.

In Tripura, where communal harmony has been a cornerstone of social cohesion, the Bishalgarh protest underscores growing unease among minority communities, who fear the law could exacerbate tensions in a state known for its diverse cultural fabric.

What’s Next?

As protests against the Waqf Act amendments gain momentum, political observers anticipate further demonstrations across Tripura and beyond.

The rally came up following intense ‘Waqf Act Awareness’ campaign unleashed by the ruling BJP. Saffron party’s heavyweight leaders, including Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha, MP Biplab Kumar Deb and party’s Tripura Pradesh president who is also a Rajya Sabha MP Rajib Bhattacharjee.

However, involved of ruling TIPRA Motha Party alongside CPIM and Congress on the Waqf has ignited serious political curiosity.