Ahmedabad: At least 41 people were detained in the city on Friday for protesting against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which was passed in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha following lengthy debates. Karanj police inspector P T Chaudhary said the protest at Lal Darwaza was led by individuals from the Muslim community and was not politically organised, although AIMIM leader Sabir Kabliwala joined the demonstrators.

Videos from the scene showed a tense situation as police attempted to disperse protestors sitting on the road. Protesters opposed the Centre’s involvement in Waqf property matters, calling the Bill a threat to such properties and demanding its withdrawal. They raised slogans like “Do not betray the minorities”, “Let us protect secularism”, and “Reject Waqf Bill”. The Bill seeks to improve the management of Waqf assets, protect heritage sites, and enhance social welfare.

According to the police, the protesters were detained for demonstrating on a public road without prior permission. DeshGujarat