'Despite nearly 40% Muslim population, Assam remained peaceful': CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on Waqf Act protests

NEW DELHI: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday said the state remained largely peaceful despite limited protests against the recently passed Waqf Amendment Act. He praised the Assam Police for their effective preparation and highlighted the state's communal harmony ahead of the Bohag Bihu festivities.
Posting on X, Sarma wrote, “Despite having nearly 40% Muslim population, Assam has remained peaceful today except isolated protests in three places involving not more than 150 participants each against the Waqf Amendment Act.”

The chief minister credited the calm to the groundwork done by law enforcement. “My compliments to Assam Police for their extensive groundwork that helped maintain calm and order. People across Assam—irrespective of caste, creed, or community and religion—are united in spirit and eagerly preparing to welcome our beloved Bohag Bihu with joy and harmony,” he said.
As preparations intensify across Guwahati and other regions, the festive spirit of Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, has taken hold. The annual celebration, which marks the Assamese New Year, is observed across the state in the second week of April with great enthusiasm and cultural vibrance.
Meanwhile, protests against the Waqf Amendment Act were held by groups of Muslims in several states on Friday.
The Act received presidential assent on April 5, following its passage in Parliament during the Budget session. The Rajya Sabha approved the bill with 128 votes in favour and 95 against, while the Lok Sabha passed it after a lengthy debate with 288 MPs supporting it and 232 opposing.
The Waqf Amendment Act, 2025, aims to enhance the management of waqf properties by empowering stakeholders, streamlining survey and registration processes, accelerating case resolutions, and encouraging development of waqf assets.