India: Nationwide Protests Against Waqf Act; UP Police File Cases Against More Than 50 Muslims

Widespread protests against the newly enforced Waqf (Amendment) Act in Uttar Pradesh have led to legal action against over 50 Muslims, following demonstrations across the state, the Clarion reported.

On April 18, protestors in Bilaspur village, Baghpat, gathered after Friday prayers to demand the repeal of the law, resulting in police registering cases under Sections 189 and 292 of the IPC for unlawful assembly and public disturbance.

Similar crackdowns occurred in Muzaffarnagar on April 5, where 24 individuals faced notices and were asked to provide bonds up to ₹2 lakh. Notices have also been issued to hundreds, including religious leaders, across districts such as Lucknow and Sitapur, with bond amounts ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹10 lakh.

The protests, fueled by concerns that the Waqf Act undermines Muslim community rights over religious properties, have sparked criticism from clerics and human rights activists. They warn the government’s actions threaten community unity and suppress democratic rights, raising serious questions about freedom of expression amid escalating tensions.