Synopsis
The Waqf Amendment Bill has caused significant protests in Bihar, particularly in Bhabhua, where Minister Md. Zama Khan faced public outrage over perceived failures to protect minority interests.Key Takeaways
- Waqf Amendment Bill causes unrest in Bihar.
- Protests erupt in Bhabhua against Minister Zama Khan.
- Protesters accuse the Minister of neglecting minority rights.
- Security intervenes to escort the Minister amid protests.
- Over 20 Muslim leaders resign from JD-U in protest.
Patna, April 22 (NationPress) The Waqf Amendment Bill has ignited significant unrest among segments of the Muslim community in Bihar, with visible outrage surfacing in Bhabhua, the district headquarters of Kaimur, the home district of State Minority Welfare Minister Md. Zama Khan.
On Tuesday, during a demonstration organized by members of the Muslim community protesting the newly enacted Waqf Bill, Minister Zama Khan found himself amidst rising discontent.
As the Minister's convoy approached the city of Bhabhua, it encountered the protest march.
In an effort to evade confrontation, his vehicle reportedly took an incorrect route, but protesters quickly recognized and encircled the convoy.
Chants of "Zama Khan Murdabad" resonated through the streets, with demonstrators accusing the Minister of neglecting to protect minority interests.
Security personnel had to act promptly, clearing the route and escorting the Minister away from the scene amidst vigorous sloganeering.
Mohammad Hanif Khan, District President of AIMIM, articulated the protesters' grievances.
"The Waqf Bill has just been enacted, and we are vehemently opposing it. Zama Khan, as Minority Welfare Minister, has failed to support the community. If he cannot represent us, what purpose does his Ministry serve?" Khan stated.
This incident underscores the escalating anxiety among minority groups regarding the Waqf Bill, with critics claiming the legislation undermines the autonomy of Waqf properties and diminishes community control.
As tensions escalate, all eyes are on the state government's forthcoming actions -- and whether Minister Zama Khan will engage with the rising dissent from his own community.
Since the Waqf Amendment Bill was approved in both Houses of Parliament, at least 20 Muslim leaders from JD-U have publicly resigned from the party, citing betrayal of minority interests.
Notable resignations include two-time MLA Master Muzahid Alam; M. Raju Nair, Former State Secretary; Shahnawaz Malik, Minority Cell State Secretary; Nadeem Akhtar, Bettiah District Vice President; Md. Tabrez Siddiqui Ali, State General Secretary Minority Cell; Md. Dilshan Rain, Member from Bhojpur; Mohammad Qasim Ansari, Former Assembly candidate Dhaka, Motihari; Mohammad Feroz Khan, Nawada District Secretary; and others.
