Why Has the Bharat Bandh Against the Waqf Law Been Postponed by AIMPLB?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Bharat Bandh was postponed to respect community religious celebrations.
- AIMPLB continues to oppose the Waqf Amendment Act.
- Future protest dates will be announced soon.
- Public meetings and rallies are ongoing.
- Consultation among AIMPLB members was crucial in the decision-making process.
New Delhi, Oct 1 (NationPress) The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has decided to postpone the previously planned Bharat Bandh for October 3, which was intended to be a significant part of the ongoing nationwide protest against the Waqf Amendment Act.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Board indicated that this decision came after an urgent meeting of its office-bearers, chaired by AIMPLB president Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani.
Dr. S.Q.R. Ilyas, the spokesperson for AIMPLB and national convener of the Save Waqf Campaign, mentioned that the bandh was deferred due to the coinciding religious festivals occurring in some states on that date.
“Reports have shown that the religious celebrations of our fellow citizens are planned for October 3 in multiple regions. Taking this into account, the Board consulted and reached a unanimous decision to postpone the bandh,” Ilyas stated.
Although the bandh is currently on hold, the AIMPLB emphasized that its campaign against the Waqf Amendment Act will persist with other protest initiatives already outlined.
“The Bharat Bandh is postponed, but Insha’Allah, new dates will be announced soon. The struggle against the anti-Waqf law will continue as scheduled,” Ilyas added.
The bandh was slated to occur from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, October 3, urging businesses, offices, and commercial entities to close. However, essential medical services, hospitals, and pharmacies were to remain operational. The AIMPLB has confirmed that this has now been postponed, with fresh dates forthcoming.
The AIMPLB has been leading a nationwide initiative against the Waqf Amendment Act, asserting that it diminishes the independence of Waqf institutions and infringes upon the rights of the Muslim community.
The Board has already held public meetings, rallies, and signature campaigns across various states and has announced a structured agitation plan, which includes a nationwide shutdown.