26 April Waqf protest at Brigade announced by ISF

A statewide protest campaign against the amended Waqf Act has culminated in a call for a large public gathering on April 26 at the Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata. The program, announced from Furfura Sharif, is being organized to demand the withdrawal of the amended legislation. The rally is part of a broader series of demonstrations by sections of the Muslim community across India opposing the changes made to the Waqf Act.

Following the announcement of the rally, questions surfaced regarding the participation of Indian Secular Front (ISF) MLA from Bhangar, Nawsad Siddique. Despite his active involvement in past issues concerning the Waqf Board, Siddique had not confirmed his presence or position on the upcoming rally, leading to public and political speculation. His silence on the issue prompted discussions about whether he intended to participate in the event or remain uninvolved.

On Monday, Nawsad Siddique responded to the speculation by stating that he had intentionally kept a low profile regarding the Brigade rally. He referred to a recent incident in Bhangar, where a protest against the Waqf Amendment Act had allegedly faced resistance from the state government. He said, “Now if I say that I’m going to the Brigade on the 26th, the Mamata Banerjee administration may try to disrupt the gathering or deny permission.” Siddique added, “Sometimes, in the interest of society, one must remain in the shadows to let others have the spotlight—like a candle that lights its surroundings by staying in the dark.”

Siddique also emphasized that the protests must follow democratic norms. He stated that the higher the number of people who participate in the demonstrations, the more likely the central government would be to reverse its stance. Without confirming his participation in the April 26 rally, he said he would continue to support the cause strategically. He urged demonstrators to stay united and peaceful, stating that any disruption could be detrimental to the movement.

Protests opposing the amended Waqf Act have already been recorded in multiple districts across West Bengal, including Murshidabad and Malda, where incidents of unrest have taken place. In Furfura Sharif, Pirzadas organized protest meetings, including one held at Ujulpukur Maidan. However, both Nawsad Siddique and Tohba Siddique were not present at that gathering. Following this, discussions intensified around whether Nawsad would attend the Brigade rally. He later issued a message requesting those who attend the rally to remain calm and not fall into any traps or provocation.