Why is Owaisi Urging Citizens to Join the ‘Batti Gul’ Protest Against the Waqf Act?
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Synopsis
Asaduddin Owaisi, the President of AIMIM, is rallying the public to partake in the 'Batti Gul' protest against the Waqf Amendment Act. This nationwide movement aims to spotlight the alleged constitutional violations posed by the Act, encouraging citizens to demonstrate solidarity by switching off their lights for 15 minutes. Join the movement to uphold constitutional rights!
Key Takeaways
- Nationwide protests are being organized against the Waqf Amendment Act.
- Owaisi calls for public participation in the 'Batti Gul' protest.
- The Act is seen as violating fundamental rights protected by the Constitution.
- Solidarity with victims of recent violence was observed during the protests.
- Continued demonstrations are planned until the Act is repealed.
Hyderabad, April 29 (NationPress) AIMIM President and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi has called upon the public to support the “lights off demonstration” against the Waqf Amendment Act scheduled for April 30. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has organized the ‘Batti Gul’ protest in both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Owaisi encouraged citizens to participate in this initiative by turning off their lights for a duration of 15 minutes starting at 9 p.m. on Wednesday.
As part of the ongoing nationwide movement against the Waqf Amendment Act, the AIMPLB has urged individuals to extinguish the lights in their homes and businesses from 9 p.m. until 9:15 p.m.
“I urge everyone to join this protest by switching off the lights to convey a message to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that this Act breaches the Indian Constitution,” Owaisi stated.
The AIMIM President emphasized that the Waqf Amendment Act infringes upon fundamental rights enshrined in Articles 14, 15, 25, and 26 of the Constitution. “This legislation allows government interference in the religious board of Muslims,” he added.
He called on the public to express their dissent against this “unjust legislation” that was passed in violation of the Constitution.
During a large gathering at the AIMIM headquarters on April 19, the Board announced its plans for a series of demonstrations across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
The AIMPLB leaders have stated that protests will persist until the Union government withdraws the Act.
In response to the terrorist incident in Pahalgam on April 22, the AIMPLB paused its protest initiatives for three days as a gesture of solidarity with the victims' families.
After a brief hiatus, the protests under the national ‘Waqf Bachao’ campaign resumed.
Owaisi and other AIMPLB leaders addressed gatherings in Parbhani, Maharashtra, on Sunday and held a press conference in Aurangabad on Monday, accusing the BJP of disseminating misleading information regarding Waqf.
AIMPLB President Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani urged attendees at the Hyderabad meeting not to fall prey to misinformation suggesting that further protests are unnecessary due to the Supreme Court's acceptance of the Waqf by user clause, which implies only Muslims will manage Waqf properties.
He warned that mere adjustments to the Act would not resolve the issues and emphasized that peaceful protests should carry on until the Act is repealed.
“The Supreme Court has not nullified the legislation; it has merely provided temporary relief,” noted Khalid Saifullah Rahmani, expressing hope that the apex court would ultimately invalidate the Act.
Point of View
The Waqf Amendment Act has sparked significant concern among various communities, highlighting the delicate balance between governance and religious autonomy. The ongoing protests, led by influential figures like Owaisi, reflect a broader struggle for constitutional rights and freedoms in India. As such, it's essential to approach this issue with a commitment to justice and equality for all citizens, fostering dialogue and understanding.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the 'Batti Gul' protest?
The 'Batti Gul' protest aims to raise awareness and express dissent against the Waqf Amendment Act, which is viewed as a violation of constitutional rights.
When is the protest taking place?
The protest is scheduled for April 30, with participants encouraged to switch off their lights from 9 p.m. to 9:15 p.m.
Who is leading the protest?
The protest is being led by Asaduddin Owaisi, the President of AIMIM, alongside the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).
What are the main concerns regarding the Waqf Amendment Act?
Concerns include potential government interference in religious matters and violations of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
How can people participate in the protest?
People can participate by turning off their lights for 15 minutes at 9 p.m. on April 30, showing solidarity with the movement.
