Waqf Bill Sparks Roadblock Protest by 2,000 in Central Kolkata

KOLKATA: Nearly 2,000 people from various minority organizations gathered at Park Circus on Friday to protest against the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Bill. The peaceful protest caused traffic disruptions at the busy Seven-Point Crossing, which was shut down for about two hours.

Protest Against the Bill

The protest began near Lady Brabourne College, where people met to voice their concerns about the new bill. They later marched toward the Seven-Point Crossing, blocking major roads like Amir Ali Avenue, Suhrawardy Avenue, and New Park Street. Protesters demanded that the Central Government withdraw the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which is now awaiting the President’s approval.

Organisers claimed the bill was passed without taking the views of the Waqf beneficiaries or affected communities into account. They described it as undemocratic and said it could lead to loss of rights over Waqf properties.

Peaceful Protest With Careful Planning

Despite the large crowd, the protest remained peaceful. Kolkata Police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) teams were present at the site to maintain law and order. Traffic officers quickly implemented alternate routes to manage vehicle movement.

School buses, ambulances, and airport-bound vehicles were given priority access, and no major traffic jams were reported. “We had pre-arranged diversion plans which helped traffic continue smoothly,” said a senior police officer from Lalbazar.

Two-wheelers were guided through nearby lanes such as Bijli Gali, while four-wheelers were rerouted via Lalmohan Bhattacharya Lane and Suresh Sarkar Street.

Political Voices Present

While no political parties officially led the protest, several local leaders from Topsia, Kasba, Tiljala, and Beckbagan attended the event. Many held placards and voiced anger against the central government’s move.

J. Ahmed, a resident of Topsia, said, “The Centre will have to face the consequences of passing such a law without talking to the people it affects.”

Mohammad Hamid Hossain, a resident of Park Circus, added, “We were not consulted or asked for our opinion. This is our peaceful way of saying no to a bill that threatens our rights.”

The protest highlighted growing concern among sections of the minority community about the future of Waqf properties and community rights. Organisers have hinted at more demonstrations if the bill is not reviewed or withdrawn.