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States » SouthPosted at: Mar 31 2025 7:20PM


Karnataka ministers protest Waqf Bill with black bands

Bengaluru, Apr Mar 31 (UNI) Karnataka ministers and their supporters staged a silent protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 by wearing black bands during Ramzan prayers on Monday. The gesture, intended as a symbolic resistance to the proposed legislation, was prominently displayed during congregational prayers across the state.
The black bands, according to the ministers, symbolised a peaceful resistance to the Centre’s proposed changes to the Waqf Act.
Minister for Waqf and Tourism Zameer Ahmad Khan stated, "The Waqf Act has stood since the British era. Any amendments that jeopardise its integrity must be opposed. Our state government has already declared its disapproval, and we made it clear in the last Assembly session that Karnataka will not support this bill."
Zameer, along with Minister for Municipal Administration and Hajj K Rahman Khan, led the demonstration in Bengaluru and Bidar, respectively, accompanied by hundreds of their supporters. At Chamarajpet Grounds in Bengaluru, Zameer participated in the prayers with a black band on his arm, a move mirrored by his supporters.
"Ramzan and Ugadi are both festivals that unite communities. Today, my prayers were dedicated to communal harmony, ensuring that Hindus, Muslims, and Christians continue to coexist peacefully," Zameer told reporters after the prayers. He also revealed that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who traditionally attends Ramzan prayers, was absent this year due to health reasons but had conveyed his wishes to the community.
Renowned Islamic scholar Maulana Mohamed Maqsood Imran Rashadi also weighed in on the controversy, warning that the proposed bill, expected to be tabled in Parliament soon, could have far-reaching implications. "We are choosing silent symbolism over verbal confrontation. Our black bands reflect a deep discontent, and this protest aligns with our constitutional right to peaceful expression," he stated.
Meanwhile, Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker UT Khader participated in the morning prayers at Bavutagadde Idgah Masjid in Mangaluru but chose not to wear a black band, signalling a nuanced stance on the matter. UNI BDN SSP
Tags: #Karnataka ministers protest Waqf Bill with black bands
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