Led by Congress leaders Osman Bin Mohammed Alhajri and Shaik Akbar, along with civil society groups, the march drew crowds citywide, merging into a massive rally at Ambedkar Circle
Published Apr 13, 2025 | 8:00 PM ⚊ Updated Apr 13, 2025 | 8:00 PM
‘Waqf Bachai March’ storms Hyderabad: Protesters rally against Waqf Amendment Bill
Synopsis: On 13 April, hundreds marched through Hyderabad in the ‘Waqf Bachai March – Chalo Hyderabad’ to protest the Waqf Amendment Act, alleging it threatens Muslim constitutional rights. Organised by Congress leaders and civil groups, the rally disrupted traffic and drew over 1,000 police. Protesters carried black placards, chanted slogans, and demanded the Bill’s repeal under heavy security
Hundreds took to the streets of Hyderabad on Sunday, 13 April, in the ‘Waqf Bachai March – Chalo Hyderabad’ protest against the recently passed Waqf Amendment Bill, which they allege threatens the constitutional rights of the Muslim community.
The march began at the Dubhash Chandra Bose Statue near Nizam College and made its way to the Ambedkar Statue near Liberty Circle via the Basheerbagh Flyover, bringing the city center to a virtual standstill amid tight police security and heavy traffic disruptions.
Over 1,000 police personnel were reportedly deployed to manage the swelling crowds and maintain order.
Organised by Congress leaders such as Osman Bin Mohammed Alhajri and Shaik Akbar, alongside other civil society groups, the march saw large numbers of people join from various parts of the city, merging into a massive rally by the time it reached Ambedkar Circle.
Protesters carried black placards and flags under the sweltering April sun, chanting slogans and demanding the repeal of the Bill.
Numerous Indian flags were seen among the crowd, alongside posters and placards featuring Dr. BR Ambedkar, asserting their stand for constitutional rights and religious freedom.
Participants accused the government of interfering in religious matters and attempting to seize Waqf properties. “I’m here because I feel like the government is trying to mess with my faith,” said Syed Akbar, a resident of Somajiguda. “It is not right for them to interfere in something so close to an individual’s heart.”
Mohammad Fajim Ajaj, a student from Osmania University and resident of Kings Colony, was more direct in his criticism. “The Modi government is behaving as if we’re mute and deaf. They’re trying to steal our lands and hand them over to their favourite industrialist. It’s like they’re acting as Adani’s broker,” he alleged.
Placards with crossed-out faces of politicians like Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar were also spotted, with slogans condemning their perceived silence or support for the Bill.
A group of young protesters poked fun at the Prime Minister and the Home Minister, holding signs labeling them “thieves.”
While the rally remained largely peaceful, traffic chaos gripped the area, with vehicles stranded for hours around Basheerbagh and Liberty Circle.
The Waqf Amendment Bill, which has sparked significant backlash, is viewed by critics as an attempt to centralise control over Waqf properties, weakening community oversight and endangering centuries-old religious endowments. Protesters have vowed to continue their agitation until the Bill is withdrawn.
(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Saicharan Sana)
