ASSAM: Protests against the recently passed Waqf Amendment Act turned violent on Sunday in Assam’s Cachar district, following similar unrest in West Bengal earlier. Initially peaceful, the demonstration in Silchar escalated when a faction of protesters began hurling stones at police forces.
Armed forces personnel intervened to restore order, dispersing the crowd across areas including Chamragudam, Berenga, and old Lakhipur road.
The protest began peacefully with participants carrying placards and voicing objections to the Act, which they denounced as “anti-Islamic.” However, the situation deteriorated when some individuals joined the rally and initiated clashes with law enforcement. Police responded with baton charges to quell the disturbance.
According to Cachar police chief Numal Mahatta, law enforcement used “necessary force” to manage the situation, attributing the violence to troublemakers infiltrating the otherwise peaceful protest. Approximately 300-400 people had gathered to oppose the Waqf Amendment Act, and authorities pledged to take legal action against those disrupting public order.
A protester expressed regret over the incidents of stone pelting, affirming that the initial intent was a peaceful demonstration against the Act. They emphasised their opposition to the legislation on religious grounds but condemned the violence, asserting support for police actions against the troublemakers.
Previously, Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Sarma had lauded the Muslim community for maintaining peace in the state despite anticipated protests following Friday prayers. He credited the Assam Police for preemptively managing potential unrest through dialogue with minority leaders.
Nationwide, protests against the Waqf Amendment Act have erupted, with fatalities reported in West Bengal’s Murshidabad and clashes in Tripura. The Act, aimed at reforming the governance of Waqf properties, has sparked controversy, with critics alleging it targets minority communities while supporters argue it enhances transparency in property management.
