Assam: Hundreds Protest Against Waqf Act in Silchar, Clash with Authorities

SILCHAR- Tensions flared in Assam’s Silchar on Sunday as a protest rally against the recently enacted Waqf (Amendment) Act turned violent, leading to clashes between demonstrators and police. The unrest, involving around 300–400 protesters, disrupted traffic and caused public panic, but authorities swiftly brought the situation under control.

The rally, organized without prior permission, saw hundreds of demonstrators, primarily from the minority community, take to the streets, waving black flags and chanting slogans against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central and state governments. Protesters demanded the immediate repeal of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, which was passed by Parliament and received presidential assent on April 5, 2025, aiming to reform the management of Waqf properties.

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According to Cachar Superintendent of Police Numal Mahatta, the protest initially remained peaceful, but a section of agitators began pelting stones at police personnel when authorities attempted to clear blocked roads. “Around 300–400 people were protesting by obstructing traffic. When we tried to restore order, some miscreants threw stones, prompting us to use mild lathi-charge to disperse the crowd,” Mahatta told reporters. He emphasized that the police exercised restraint, using “reasonable force” to manage the situation.

Visuals from the scene showed chaotic moments, with protesters holding placards and shouting against the legislation, while police formed barricades to contain the crowd. Some public property was reportedly vandalized during the unrest, though no serious injuries were reported. A senior official confirmed that a case has been registered against unidentified individuals for violating public order, but no arrests or detentions have been made as of now.

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A protester, speaking to local media, condemned the violence, stating, “We organized a peaceful rally to oppose the Waqf Act, which we believe is unjust. We condemn any stone-pelting and stand with the police in taking action against troublemakers.”

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who had earlier lauded the state police for maintaining peace amid nationwide protests. On Saturday, he noted that intelligence reports had warned of potential unrest, but Assam had remained largely calm, with only minor demonstrations in three locations. “We worked with minority leaders to ensure no major incidents occurred,” Sarma had said.

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The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, has sparked widespread controversy, with protests erupting in states like West Bengal, Tripura, Manipur and Tamil Nadu. Critics argue it undermines minority rights, while supporters, including the BJP, claim it enhances transparency in Waqf property management. In Silchar, the clash follows similar unrest in West Bengal’s Murshidabad, where three deaths were reported during protests.