Don’t check intention support waqf bachao rally: Advocate Irshad Ahmad
New Delhi : Advocate Irshad Ahmad, in a press briefing today, commended the bold and timely initiative of Maulana Ahmad Faisal Wali Rahmani, President of Imarat-e-Shariah, Bihar, Jharkhand & Odisha, for organizing a massive rally titled “Waqf Bachao, Dastur Bachao” at Gandhi Maidan, Patna, scheduled to be held on 29th June 2025.
This initiative comes at a crucial juncture when the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, despite strong public opposition, has been approved by both Houses of Parliament and duly signed by the Hon’ble President of India. There is widespread concern that many of the provisions in this Act are in direct contradiction with the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India, and also hurt the spirit, sanctity, and autonomy of Waqf institutions across the country.
While the matter now lies beyond the control of the Bihar State Government, the decision to hold this rally in Patna—the political and cultural nerve centre of Bihar—holds symbolic and historical importance. Imarat-e-Shariah, under the stewardship of Maulana Rahmani, has a long-standing tradition of voicing community concerns through peaceful democratic means. The Gandhi Maidan has witnessed such movements in the past, including a similar rally organized around 8 years ago, when thousands gathered under the banner of Imarat-e-Shariah in defense of constitutional and religious rights.
At the same time, it is important to acknowledge that a section of Muslim intellectuals and religious scholars (Ulema) have raised apprehensions about the timing and possible political undertones of the rally, particularly in light of the approaching Bihar Assembly elections. Some have alleged that similar rallies in the past were followed by political rewards, with references being made to a known sponsor of the earlier event being appointed as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC).
While these voices must be heard in a democratic setup, I wish to make it clear that I do not question the intentions of Maulana Ahmad Faisal Wali Rahmani Sahab or Imarat-e-Shariah. On the contrary, I believe it is the duty of every conscious citizen and institution to stand against laws that jeopardize community interests and constitutional values. However, it is equally essential that such genuine efforts remain above suspicion, and are not allowed to be misinterpreted as tools for electoral negotiation.
This is a moment that demands unity, clarity of purpose, and transparency, especially when the issue at hand—the protection of Waqf properties and constitutional rights—concerns not just one organisation, but every Muslim individual and institution across India.
Let this rally be a call for constructive resistance, a plea for legal redress, and a reaffirmation of our faith in constitutional justice.
