Daijiworld Media Network- Kaimur
Kaimur, Apr 23: The recently enacted Waqf Amendment Bill has ignited a wave of unrest across Bihar, with members of the Muslim community voicing strong opposition. Tensions peaked on Tuesday in Bhabhua, the district headquarters of Kaimur, as Minority Welfare Minister Md. Zama Khan faced fierce backlash from locals.
A protest march organized by the Muslim community in Bhabhua turned tense when Minister Zama Khan’s convoy attempted to pass through the area. Attempting to avoid confrontation, the convoy reportedly diverted from its route, but alert protestors swiftly intercepted and surrounded the vehicles.
The atmosphere grew charged with slogans of “Zama Khan Murdabad” reverberating through the streets, as demonstrators accused the Minister of failing to protect the rights and interests of the minority community in light of the controversial Waqf Bill.
Security forces had to step in promptly to de-escalate the situation, eventually escorting the Minister to safety amidst rising tempers and vocal dissent.
Mohammad Hanif Khan, AIMIM’s Kaimur District President, expressed deep dissatisfaction with the Minister's role: “This Bill is unacceptable. Zama Khan, despite being the Minority Welfare Minister, has done nothing to oppose it. If he cannot stand with us, what good is his position?”
The core of the opposition lies in the belief that the Waqf Amendment Bill strips the community of control over Waqf properties, reducing autonomy and threatening long-standing religious and social structures.
Political repercussions have been swift. Following the Bill’s passage in Parliament, discontent has surged within the JD(U), with over 20 Muslim leaders resigning from the party. Notable names include former MLAs and state office bearers such as Master Muzahid Alam, M. Raju Nair, Shahnawaz Malik, and Mohammad Qasim Ansari, among others.
As community anger mounts, political observers are keenly watching how the state government and Minister Zama Khan navigate the deepening crisis within their minority support base.