Meitei Pangal warn to resort to ‘Jihad’

Imphal: Demanding repeal of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which Muslim people term as “Unconstitutional Act,” thousands of Meitei Pangals (Muslims) took out protests at different parts of Imphal East of Manipur on Friday, and warned that they may resort to “Jihad” if their demand is not met.

Since the Act was enacted, Muslim communities across the country have been protesting its provisions, claiming that the inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf Boards would negatively impact Islamic religious institutions.

“The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 was enacted forcibly against the will of the Muslim community. It should be repealed immediately,” said Haji Arafat Ali Tampakmayum, president of the Meitei Pangal Council Manipur (MPCM), told reporters during a demonstration at Hatta Golapati, Imphal East.

“The central government has hurt the sentiments of Muslims. If the Act is not repealed, we may be compelled to resort to ‘Jihad’ to reclaim our rights,” Ali said.

The protest began with a rally in the Hatta Golapati area and later converged at the local community ground. Demonstrators raised slogans “Save Masjid, Madrasa, Qabrstan,” “We Strongly Condemn the Govt.’s Racial Policies,” “We Reject WAQF Act,” and “Hands Off WAQF Properties.” They chanted “Nara-e-Takbeer, Allahu Akbar” and “Down Down BJP.”

Similar protests were also held in the Kshetrigao Assembly constituency. Local MLA Sheikh Noorul Hassan, who joined the protest.

“The Act is a violation of the Constitution of India and the rights of minorities, especially the Muslim community. The matter is now before the Supreme Court, and we hope justice will prevail,” he said informing the media that a hearing on a writ petition challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Act is scheduled for April 16.

“The petition has been filed by ten different petitioners, including myself. We hope, the Court will deliver a landmark judgment,” Hassan said.

Commenting on the use of the word “Jihad” by some protesters, Hassan clarified, “The protest is peaceful and democratic. I condemn the use of any word that goes against the spirit of non-violence.”

Similar protest was also held at Yairipok Tulihal.

On April 6, irate mob vandalised and arson house of Manipur Minority Morcha BJP president, Askar Ali Makakmayum, in Thoubal district, in retaliation for supporting  the Act.