Mangaluru | April 19 – 2025 – A massive protest erupted at Shah Grounds near National Highway 73 in Kannur, Mangaluru, as an estimated lakhs of people gathered to denounce the Union Government’s Waqf Amendment Act. The demonstration, organized under the banner of Ulama Coordination Karnataka, took place following Friday congregational prayers.
Protesters voiced strong opposition to what they termed as the politicisation of Waqf properties, holding placards with messages such as “Reject Waqf Amendment Act” and “Stop Politicising Waqf.” The sea of demonstrators filled the grounds and nearby areas, waving Indian tricolour flags from rooftops and treetops, as slogans of “Allahu Akbar” and “Azadi” echoed across the venue.
Religious Sentiment Meets Political Resistance
Organisers accused the central government of infringing upon the autonomy of religious endowments, warning that the proposed changes would centralize control and erode the community’s right to manage Waqf properties independently.
The event was notable for its peaceful yet assertive expression of dissent, reflecting a growing wave of concern among various Muslim groups in the region.
More such gatherings are expected across Karnataka and other states as the debate around the Waqf Amendment intensifies.
