The Waqf protest was more than a Muslim issue—it was a constitutional assertion of religious and community rights. Yet, its critics revealed a deeper discomfort with faith in public life. The backlash exposes India’s growing secular blind spot, where pluralism is praised in theory but punished when practiced by minorities.
Over one million people gathered at Patna’s Gandhi Maidan to protest the Waqf Act 2025, which critics say increases state control over religious endowments. Organised by Imarat-e-Shariah, the protest saw participation from religious leaders and opposition politicians, who raised constitutional concerns and warned of political repercussions in upcoming elections.
Ahmed Wali Faisal Rahmani warns that the Waqf Act 2025 threatens centuries-old Muslim endowments that served all communities. While global institutions like Harvard thrive on endowments, India is dismantling its own. The Act could severely impact Dalits, the poor, and lakhs of non-Muslims relying on Waqf-supported services.
Despite being legally eligible as an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) to lead Islamic organizations, Rahmani faced unwarranted criticism questioning his commitment to the Indian Muslim community. His tenure as Ameer-e-Shariat has been marked by visionary leadership, bridging religious values with modern needs in education, technology, and healthcare. This episode highlights the urgent need for accountable, progressive leaders to uplift Indian Muslims amidst challenges of poverty and misrepresentation.