PDP Protest in Srinagar: Police Block March Against Waqf Amendment Act
Srinagar 11 April 2025: On Friday, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) attempted to stage a protest march in Srinagar against the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. However, police intervention thwarted their plans, confining the protesters to the party headquarters near Sher-e-Kashmir Park.
Led by PDP General Secretary Khurshid Alam, the demonstrators carried placards reading “We Reject Waqf Bill” and “NC’s Silence is Criminal.” They accused the government of targeting Muslim institutions through the new legislation, which was passed in Parliament during late-night sessions without adequate debate or consultation.
The police barricaded the gates of the party office, preventing the protesters from marching towards Lal Chowk. Speaking to reporters, Alam described the Act as a “conspiracy” against Muslims and criticized the National Conference (NC) for its silence on the issue. He stated, “This law is unacceptable to the Muslim community. It is an attack on our religious institutions.”
The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, aims to improve the management of waqf properties and streamline processes related to their survey, registration, and development. However, PDP leaders argue that the Act undermines the autonomy of Muslim institutions and poses a threat to their heritage.
The protest ended peacefully after police intervention, but the PDP has vowed to continue its opposition to the Act, calling for its repeal.
