Minority Groups Rally at Park Circus, Demand Immediate Withdrawal of Controversial Legislation
Kolkata, April 4 — Hundreds of members from the minority community gathered at Park Circus Crossing on Friday to stage a large-scale protest against the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The demonstration came just hours after the Bill received approval from the Rajya Sabha, following a marathon 13-hour debate in Parliament.Protesters filled the streets, voicing strong opposition to what they described as a discriminatory and authoritarian move. The protest, which saw the participation of multiple minority organisations, caused significant traffic disruptions in the area.
“This Bill is a ploy by the BJP to divide the country. They passed it in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha due to their majority. We oppose this authoritarian approach. This is not just an attempt to seize Muslim properties but also malign us,” a protester stated.
Mamata Banerjee Slams BJP Over Bill
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also took a strong stance against the Waqf Bill. She accused the BJP-led government of trying to sow division across the country and promised to take corrective action once there is a change in leadership at the Centre.“This Bill is an attempt to divide the country. When a new government is formed after ousting the current regime, we will amend this and nullify the Bill,” said Banerjee.
Parliament Passes Bill Amid Fierce Debate
Despite widespread opposition, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was passed in both houses of Parliament. In the Rajya Sabha, 128 members voted in favour, while 95 opposed it. In the Lok Sabha, the Bill was cleared on Thursday with 288 votes supporting and 232 opposing.The debate surrounding the legislation was intense. Opposition parties condemned the Bill as "anti-Muslim" and "unconstitutional." In contrast, the government defended the legislation, calling it a “historic reform” that aims to benefit the minority community.
