Concerns Over Shahid Azmi’s Murder and Government’s Alleged Anti-Muslim Policies Raised at Lecture Series
Team Clarion
MUMBAI — The proposed Waqf Board Amendment Bill has sparked outrage and an uncertainty about the future among Indian Muslims, with prominent voices warning of nationwide protests if the legislation is enforced. At a lecture series organised by the Innocent Network at the Marathi Patrakar Sangh, speakers decried the bill as an orchestrated attempt to seize Waqf properties under the guise of legal reforms. The event also paid tribute to the slain advocate Shahid Azmi, lamenting the lack of justice even after 12 years since his brutal murder.
During the programme, lawyer Naushad Ahmed provided an update on Shahid Azmi’s murder trial, stating that the case has reached its final stage, with testimonies from 38 witnesses recorded. “We are hopeful that after 12 long years, the court will finally deliver its verdict this year,” he remarked.
Shahid Azmi’s brother, Arif Azmi, grew emotional while recounting his sibling’s dedication to fighting for the oppressed. “Shahid never hesitated to stand up against police brutality and false cases. His life was a beacon of hope for those wrongfully accused,” he said.
Advocate Suzanne echoed this sentiment, acknowledging Azmi’s courage in defending victims of state excesses. “He was an inspiration for today’s youth, a true warrior for justice,” she stated.
The lecture, titled ‘Why is the Waqf Amendment Bill Harmful or Dangerous for Muslims?’, shed light on the widespread concerns regarding the bill. Abdul Wahid Sheikh, who was acquitted in the Mumbai train bomb blast case, alleged that the government was determined to implement the bill despite fierce opposition from the Muslim community. “More than 60 million Muslims have sent emails against this bill, yet the government remains adamant. They aim to take over Waqf properties under the pretext of ending corruption,” he asserted.
Sheikh highlighted that India has 35 Waqf boards overseeing Waqf properties, with Karnataka generating the highest revenue while Maharashtra lags in income. “Instead of reforming the system to eliminate corruption, the government wants to legitimise the seizure of Muslim properties. If the government enforces this bill, Indian Muslims will take to the streets in protest,” he warned.
The event served as a platform for legal experts, activists, and community leaders to voice their grievances against what they see as systemic targeting of Muslims. The Waqf Board Amendment Bill remains a contentious issue, with Muslim leaders vowing continued resistance against what they perceive as an unjust policy.
