Coastal Muslim leaders convene in Bhatkal, call for protests against new Waqf law
Bhatkal, April 15: Leaders and representatives from Muslim organizations across Karnataka’s coastal districts and parts of Goa gathered at Rabita Hall in Bhatkal on Tuesday to express collective opposition to the Waqf (Amendment) Act passed by the central government. The meeting was organized by Majlis-e-Islah wa Tanzeem, a prominent community organization in Bhatkal, and brought together voices from Uttara Kannada, Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and neighbouring regions.
Participants at the convention described the new law as a direct attack on the autonomy of Waqf institutions and accused the government of interfering in Muslim religious matters. They warned that the changes could weaken the management of properties meant for community welfare and religious purposes.
A resolution adopted at the meeting called for protest demonstrations to be held on Friday, April 18, across Uttara Kannada district after Friday prayers. Protesters will hand over memorandums addressed to the President and Prime Minister through local authorities. Community leaders also announced that an awareness campaign would be launched to educate people on how the new amendments could impact Waqf properties and institutions.
Speakers at the meeting emphasized the importance of unity within the community and urged collaboration with secular-minded individuals from other faiths, noting the success of past movements such as the anti-CAA protests.
Advocate M.K. Maitri, a senior lawyer from Bengaluru, presented an overview of the legal implications of the Waqf amendment, cautioning that it could give the government more control over Waqf institutions. Maulana Ilyas Jakati Nadvi, a member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), opened the session by explaining the Board’s stance and ongoing national campaign against the law.
The event was chaired by Inayatullah Shabandri, President of Majlis-e-Islah wa Tanzeem. Several notable community leaders were present, including Atiqur Rahman Muniri of Rabita Society, Abdul Raqeeb MJ Nadvi of Tanzeem, and political figures like Ashraf Beary and former MLA Mohiuddin Bava. Delegates from Mangaluru, Udupi, Karwar, Sirsi, Murdeshwar, Honnavar, and Goa were also in attendance.
The gathering appreciated Tanzeem’s efforts to bring leaders together and proposed setting up a regional coordination body to continue raising concerns over the Waqf law and other issues affecting the Muslim community.
The speakers reiterated that the protests would be peaceful and lawful and urged community members to participate in large numbers to ensure their voices are heard.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Speaker UT Khader attends local cricket tournament during Bhatkal visit
Bhatkal: Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly U. T. Khader visited Bhatkal in Uttara Kannada district on Saturday and attended a local cricket match being played as part of a tournament organised by the Cosmos Sports Centre of Bhatkal.
After attending a programme at Anjuman Hami-E-Muslimeen, Khader proceeded to the Bhatkal Taluka Stadium, where the tournament is underway. He was accompanied by office-bearers of the Cosmos Sports Centre and several local community leaders.
Those present during the visit included President of Majlis-e-Islah Wa Tanzeem and former JD(S) leader Inayathullah Shabandri, Vice President of Tanzeem Atiqur Rahman Muniri, General Secretary Abdul Raqeeb MJ, President of Cosmos Sports Centre Ismail Anjum, Managing Director of Mohtisham Complexes S. M. Arshad, former president of the Bhatkal Muslim Youth Federation Imtiyaz Udyawar, among others.
Addressing players and organisers, Khader extended his best wishes to the participating teams and urged the players to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship. He said such tournaments help promote unity and brotherhood among the youth.
The cricket tournament began on November 21 and will conclude with the final match on December 21. It is being organised as part of the golden jubilee celebrations of the Cosmos Sports Centre.
Cosmos Sports Centre is one of the member clubs of the Bhatkal Muslim Youth Federation and is known for its active role in promoting sports in the town. Apart from sporting activities, the centre is also involved in various social and community initiatives, including efforts to promote education among students.
