No Waqf protest Brigade rally tomorrow

The Calcutta High Court has asked the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) to postpone its proposed rally against the Waqf Act that was originally scheduled for April 26 at the Brigade Parade Ground. The decision comes after the Indian Army Eastern Headquarters denied permission for the use of the ground, citing ongoing military training exercises in the area.

The AIMPLB had filed a petition seeking permission to conduct the rally, challenging the Army’s refusal. During the hearing, the High Court took into account the Army’s justification and also addressed the sensitive national atmosphere following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. The court urged the Muslim body to consider postponing the rally by at least a week.

The bench emphasized that public demonstrations, especially on contentious issues like the Waqf Act, must be conducted with care and responsibility, given the heightened communal sensitivities in the wake of the attack on Hindu pilgrims in Kashmir. The court's advice aims to maintain peace and harmony in Kolkata and avoid further unrest.

Sources confirmed that the Indian Army routinely uses the Brigade Parade Ground for training exercises, and granting civilian access during such periods could interfere with national security and preparedness. The court noted the importance of the Army’s stance and stressed the need to respect institutional responsibilities.