Hyderabad: A large number of Muslims held protests across Hyderabad on Friday against the new Waqf Act. The demonstrations began after Friday prayers at several locations, including the historic Mecca Masjid. Worshippers came out onto the streets, demanding that the government immediately take back the new law.
The protesters carried placards and shouted slogans, showing their strong disagreement with the changes in the Act. They believe the new rules could harm Waqf properties and affect the rights of the Muslim community.
Protests took place in many areas such as Mecca Masjid, Moghalpura, Shahalibanda, Yakutpura, Santosh Nagar, Saidabad, Mehdipatnam, and Bahadurpura. Police deployed heavy security in sensitive parts of the Old City and other areas to maintain peace.
The Students Islamic Organisation (SIO) also organised a large protest rally at different places in the city. Thousands of people joined the protest, showing widespread public opposition to the new law.
The protests remained peaceful. Protesters called on the government to cancel the Act and avoid dividing communities. Organisers said they were committed to peaceful and democratic ways of expressing their views.
The rally was led by SIO Qutbullapur, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH), and other local groups and leaders. They voiced concern over how the new law could harm Waqf properties and community interests. Many held banners and raised slogans asking the government to protect these properties.
The rally took place at Shapur Nagar X Road, Quthbullapur, Yakutpura, and Santosh Nagar. Youth and community members joined in large numbers. Local leader Corporator Muzaffar Hussain was also present. The protest ended with a speech by Faisal Khan, SIO Telangana state secretary, who urged people to stay united until the Act is reversed.
In addition, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board has planned more events to oppose the Act. A major public meeting titled ‘Save Waqf, Save Constitution’ will be held on Saturday at Darussalam. On April 30, a 10-minute lights-out protest will take place, followed by round table talks, women’s gatherings at Eidgah Bilali, human chains, and sit-in protests.
