Protest Against Wakf Amendment Bill Held in Mangaluru

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, March 9, 2025: A protest march and demonstration against the central government’s proposed Wakf Amendment Bill were held in the city on Sunday, drawing over 5,000 participants. The event, organized by the Ulama Coordination Karnataka, began at Milagres and concluded at the Clock Tower, with speakers emphasizing the community’s resolve to safeguard their rights.

Speaking at the event, Shafi Saadi Bengaluru, Treasurer of the Ulama Coordination Karnataka, stated, "We are here to demand the rights granted by the Constitution. This protest is not against anyone. Our fight for Sharia rights cannot be suppressed by anyone."

He criticized the government, saying, "Why are you targeting properties handed down by our ancestors? The government’s role is to focus on development, provide jobs for the unemployed, and foster harmony. Instead, you are creating controversies over issues like the hijab, Wakf, CAA, and NRC, which bring no benefit to the nation."

UK Abdul Aziz Darimi Chokkabettu, Secretary of the Ulama Coordination, alleged that the proposed amendments aim to undermine the Wakf. "The government’s intention is not reform but dismantling. This amendment is a conspiracy against the Muslim community and part of a hidden agenda," he remarked, further criticizing the privatization of public assets and accusing the government of now targeting Wakf properties.

Other speakers, including Dr. MSM Abdur Rashid Zaini Kamil Sakhafi and SKSSF General Secretary Anis Kousari, echoed similar concerns. Sayyed Ismail Thangal Ujire presided over the event, while Vice Presidents UK Muhammad Saadi Valavoor and General Secretary KM Usman Faizi Todar led the protest.

Scholar KM Abubakar Siddiq Montugoli presented a memorandum addressed to the central and state governments, calling for the withdrawal of the proposed amendments.