Hindu Parishad expresses concern over protests against Waqf amendments

Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Saturday expressed concern over agitation programmes announced by Muslim organisations against amendments to the Waqf Act, warning that such protests could disturb law and order and threaten social harmony.

According to the VHP, the All-India Muslim Personal Law Board and other groups have called for a nationwide agitation, including a day-long closure of shops and institutions, demonstrations, and mass arrests in Delhi and state capitals. Protesters also plan to march towards Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi and Raj Bhavans in state capitals, while delegations are expected to submit memorandums to Chief Ministers opposing the amendments.

VHP international president Alok Kumar criticised the decision to launch a nationwide campaign while the matter was still pending before the Supreme Court.

“It is paradoxical that these organisations called the interim order of the Supreme Court a victory for the Constitution, but, without waiting for the final judgment, they have declared an agitation,” he said.

Referring to incidents of violence reported during Barawafat (Milad-un-Nabi) celebrations, Kumar said there were apprehensions that similar unrest could occur during the proposed protests.

“This will be a big threat to the law and order situation of the country and to social harmony,” he warned.

The VHP said the responsibility for maintaining peace rested primarily with those organising the protests.

It urged the Centre and state governments to prepare adequately to handle any situation that may arise, particularly in view of the “anger being spread on social media platforms”.

The organisation also called upon society at large to remain vigilant and take necessary steps to ensure that peace, and law and order prevailed during the agitation.