Hindus and Muslims unite for a massive 'Save WAQF' rally in Canning

A massive rally under the banner of ‘Save Waqf’ was held in Narayanpur area of Canning East Assembly constituency on Sunday, where more than 40,000 people gathered to protest against the proposed Waqf Bill. What made this rally stand out was the participation of both Muslim and Hindu communities, walking together in a rare show of communal harmony.

The protestors, waving placards and shouting slogans, demanded an immediate rollback of the proposed Waqf amendments, claiming it threatens the constitutional rights of individuals and communities over land and religious properties. The rally, which began at the football ground in Narayanpur, was described as the first step in a larger movement that is set to go national.

Organizers stressed that this was not just a community-based movement, but a message to the entire country. “Today, Hindus and Muslims have walked together for a common cause. This is what India truly stands for — unity in diversity,” said one of the local coordinators.

Speakers at the event claimed that the Waqf law in its current form is being misused and that amendments would further erode people's rights over their own property. Several protesters accused the Centre of pushing a divisive agenda and warned of escalating peaceful protests if the bill is not scrapped.

Interestingly, the rally also had a political edge. Leaders hinted at a bigger protest planned at Ghutiari Sharif in the coming days. “This one was just a warm-up. When we gather in Ghutiari Sharif, even Narendra Modi will be stunned,” said a speaker on stage, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.

With rising participation and interfaith collaboration, the ‘Save Waqf’ movement in South 24 Parganas is gaining traction rapidly. Authorities remained on high alert but reported no incidents of violence. The message of the day was loud and clear — land rights, community harmony, and a fight against what protestors call legal overreach.