Protests Erupt Over Controversial Waqf Amendment Bill

Members of a minority community protested in Park Circus Crossing against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025. Passed by Parliament, the bill is perceived as divisive and anti-Muslim. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and opposition parties criticized the legislation, highlighting its potential impact on Muslim properties.

On Friday, Park Circus Crossing became the epicenter of a significant protest as members of the minority community gathered to demand the immediate withdrawal of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

The controversial bill, passed by Parliament following a robust 13-hour debate, has drawn widespread opposition from the street to political corridors. Demonstrators, including several minority organizations, voiced that the legislation is a divisive measure by the BJP, expressing concerns over attempts to seize Muslim properties and portraying the community unfavorably.

Traffic disruptions marked the protest, while political figures like West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the bill, promising amendments post-regime change. The opposition's protest echoed in Parliament, labelling the bill unconstitutional, as the government maintained it would benefit minorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)