ADILABAD: Congress MLC Amer Ali Khan has launched a two-day protest rally from Adilabad to Hyderabad, condemning the Waqf Amendment Act, 2025, as unconstitutional and a direct attack on the rights of Muslims. The rally, which began on Sunday from the statue of Dr B.R. Ambedkar in Adilabad on the occasion of Ambedkar Jayanti, is expected to culminate in Hyderabad on April 15, passing through Nirmal, Nizamabad, and Kamareddy.
Addressing participants, Amer Ali Khan declared the Act a serious threat to religious freedom and the autonomy of Muslim institutions. He warned that the legislation grants disproportionate power to the government over Waqf Boards and opens the door for private individuals and companies to gain control over Waqf lands, potentially resulting in the irreversible loss of properties meant for community welfare.
“This is not merely a legislative change—it is a direct violation of constitutional principles,” he said. “It undermines Article 25, which guarantees the freedom of religion, and targets the autonomy of religious institutions in a dangerous way.”
Constitution in Hand, Protest on Foot
Throughout the rally, Amer Ali Khan walked with a copy of the Constitution, accompanied by community elders, students, religious scholars, and activists. The streets echoed with slogans like “Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan,” while banners read “Withdraw the Black Law” and “Protect Waqf Lands.” Protestors were welcomed by locals with flower petals and prayers, while students held placards demanding justice and equality.
Religious leaders addressed the crowds, invoking Dr Ambedkar’s vision for justice, and urging the protection of constitutional rights for all communities.
Amer Ali Khan said this protest marks the beginning of a broader national movement against the Waqf Amendment Act. He announced that memorandums would be sent to the President of India, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and national political leaders. Additionally, legal proceedings are being prepared to challenge the Act in court.
He issued three core demands:
- Immediate repeal of the Waqf Amendment Act, 2025
- Legal protection for Waqf lands under constitutional guarantees
- Establishment of a national committee to monitor encroachments and misuse of Waqf properties
The MLC strongly criticised Muslim MPs and other elected representatives for remaining silent on the issue. “You were elected with the support of the people, and yet you are silent while their rights are being stripped away. This silence is unacceptable and will be remembered,” he said.
A Fight for the Constitution
Calling upon citizens who believe in secularism, Amer Ali Khan urged the public to organise protests, hold community meetings, and pressure the government into withdrawing the Act. “This is not just about land—it’s about weakening an entire community socially, economically, and educationally,” he said. “If we stay silent now, our children may grow up without the rights we take for granted.”
The rally will conclude with a major public meeting in Hyderabad, where senior Congress leaders, religious figures, and activists are expected to address the gathering. Amer Ali Khan emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and dignity throughout the protest.
“This is not my fight alone,” he said. “This is a collective struggle for every citizen who believes in the Constitution. If we care about our future, now is the time to raise our voices.”
