Assam Stays Calm Amid Waqf Act Protests; CM Praises Police, Minority Leaders for Peace

As the state prepares for Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, the festive mood is already evident across Guwahati and other towns.

Despite nationwide protests erupting over the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, Assam maintained a peaceful atmosphere, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Saturday. Addressing a press conference in Guwahati following a Cabinet meeting, Sarma commended the Assam Police for their proactive measures and extended his gratitude to the state’s minority community for their cooperation.

CM Sarma said, “Yesterday was Friday, and we had strong intelligence input that Assam might witness disturbances due to protests by the minority community. That input came to us five days earlier, and the Assam Police immediately swung into action.”

According to the Chief Minister, the police reached out to leaders and influencers within the minority community across districts. “Most of the Superintendents of Police (SPs) got in touch with various masjid communities and other important individuals. Their groundwork was crucial in preventing unrest,” he added.

Sarma highlighted that while protests erupted across several Indian states on Friday, Assam witnessed only three minor demonstrations, each involving approximately 150 people. “The day passed peacefully, which is a result of Assam Police’s extensive outreach over the last five days,” he remarked.

Expressing appreciation, the Chief Minister said, “I would like to offer my gratitude to the people from the minority community of Assam. I also thank the Assam Police for their exemplary efforts. Maintaining law and order is the state’s top priority, and we will continue to ensure peace and stability.”

He also noted that the matter concerning the Waqf (Amendment) Act is now before the Supreme Court. “Anyone can argue in favour or against it legally,” he said, emphasising the importance of democratic processes.

Taking to social media, Sarma reiterated the state’s peaceful stance. In a post on X, he wrote, “Despite having nearly 40% Muslim population, Assam has remained peaceful today except for isolated protests in three places involving not more than 150 participants each against the Waqf Amendment Act.”

He further praised the role of the police force, stating, “My compliments to Assam Police for their extensive groundwork that helped maintain calm and order. People across Assam irrespective of caste, creed, community, and religion are united in spirit and eagerly preparing to welcome our beloved Bohag Bihu with joy and harmony.”

As the state prepares for Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, the festive mood is already evident across Guwahati and other towns. Celebrated during the second week of April, Bihu marks the Assamese New Year and is observed with cultural fervour and joy.

Meanwhile, protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act continued in various states, with several Muslim organisations expressing concern over the legislation. The Act, which received presidential assent on April 5, aims to reform the management of waqf properties. Key provisions include empowering stakeholders, streamlining survey and registration processes, accelerating legal resolutions, and promoting the development of waqf assets.

The bill was passed in Parliament during the Budget session, with the Rajya Sabha voting 128 in favour and 95 against, and the Lok Sabha clearing it with 288 supporting votes and 232 opposing.

Also Read: Assam remains peaceful amid protests against Waqf Amendment Act: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

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