Imphal: Widespread protests broke out across parts of Manipur’s Imphal Valley on Sunday in opposition to the recently enacted Waqf (Amendment) Act, with demonstrators accusing the Centre of undermining constitutional values.
The largest rally took place along National Highway 102 at Lilong in Thoubal district, where over 5,000 people gathered, bringing traffic to a halt for several hours.
Similar demonstrations were reported from Kshatri Awang Leikai, Kairang Muslim, Kiyamgei Muslim in Imphal East, and Sora in Thoubal district.
Tensions flared in Irong Chesaba on Sunday morning when a scuffle broke out between protesters and security forces who attempted to prevent the march from proceeding.
Authorities confirmed that additional forces have since been deployed in Muslim-majority areas of the Valley to maintain law and order.
“The Waqf Amendment Act violates the spirit of the Constitution and is deeply hurtful to the Muslim community,” said protester Sakir Ahmed during the rally.
The legislation, which passed the Lok Sabha on Thursday and cleared the Rajya Sabha in the early hours of Friday, aims to modernize the governance of Waqf properties—assets donated for religious or charitable use.
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Provisions in the Act seek to improve transparency, protect heritage sites, and enhance coordination between Waqf boards and local bodies.
Despite the government’s assurances that the law is intended to strengthen the management of Waqf assets and safeguard stakeholders’ rights, many in the region view the amendments with suspicion.
President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to the bill on Saturday, officially making it law.
