By Syed Habib, Jaipur
The 15-minute ‘blackout’ campaign, observed across various parts of the country including Jaipur, has added a new dimension to the growing protest against the Waqf Amendment Act. This peaceful and disciplined form of symbolic resistance has reignited a multifaceted debate—touching upon religious, social, and constitutional rights—alongside political narratives. Yet, the pressing question remains: does switching off the lights for fifteen minutes truly highlight the core issues before the government and society? This is where critical examination becomes essential.
A Civilized Form of Protest — But Is It Sufficient?
Choosing a peaceful method like the 'blackout' demonstrates that the Muslim community seeks to express dissent with responsibility and restraint. No sloganeering, no street disturbances—just a symbolic act of turning off the lights. However, one must ask: can such an approach create meaningful pressure on the government? In a democratic framework, protests must ultimately influence policy. Without that, they risk being reduced to mere symbolism.
The Waqf Amendment — What Lies at the Heart of the Concern?
Proponents of the amendment argue that it aims to bring transparency and oversight to the management of Waqf properties. However, Muslim political leaders perceive it as an intrusion into their religious and social autonomy. Their protest indicates a clear unwillingness to allow any dilution of the Waqf Board’s independence. But this also prompts a critical inquiry: has the current management of Waqf properties truly been transparent, accountable, or beneficial to the community?
Does this protest stem from a genuine desire to safeguard community interests, or is it, in part, an effort to preserve the privileges of powerful individuals entrenched in the system? It is worth noting that many of those protesting today are the very ones who contributed to the mismanagement of Waqf properties post-independence. The common Muslim has remained largely disconnected from these properties. If this is inaccurate, then why not conduct a comprehensive physical verification of Waqf assets across the country? Their revenues should be audited, and those associated with their management should be identified. More often than not, the system is dominated by those with financial and political clout.
Political Support — Representation or Polarization?
The endorsement of this movement by political figures such as Asaduddin Owaisi and AIMIM provides it with visibility and momentum. While such support can amplify the voice of the protest, it also raises questions: is this truly a non-partisan, religious-social concern, or is it being used as a political tool? The politicization of religious issues often results in the actual concerns being sidelined, as public sentiment gets entangled in emotional rhetoric rather than rational discourse.
Public Attention vs. Legal Impact
From a public relations standpoint, the blackout was successful. It garnered media coverage and trended on social platforms—an essential first step for any modern movement. However, symbolism alone does not amend laws. For the protest to move forward, it must transition into the legal and policy-making arena—through petitions, dialogue, and consultations with legislative bodies. So far, this second phase of advocacy seems absent from the movement. Without it, the protest may remain a one-time event rather than a catalyst for change.
Government Silence — Indifference or Strategy?
The central government has yet to issue any formal response. This silence could imply one of two things: either the protest is viewed as disorganized and inconsequential, or the government is deliberately avoiding engagement to diminish its significance. In either case, the government must act responsibly—acknowledging the community’s concerns and addressing them transparently on public forums.
Evolving the Language of Protest
The blackout may have been a silent but firm beginning. However, if the movement remains confined to gestures of darkness, it will never lead the way toward enlightenment. There is a need to balance transparency with autonomy in the management of Waqf properties. For this, both the government and the community must come together on a common platform.
Conclusion : A Call for Introspection and Dialogue
This protest is neither wholly unjustified nor entirely immature. It reflects a growing legal and civic consciousness within a concerned community—something that democracy cannot afford to dismiss. Yet, introspection is equally crucial. Is the community fighting to uphold meaningful traditions and fair management, or merely striving to maintain control?
The answers to these questions will determine whether this movement fades into symbolic darkness—or emerges as a guiding light for reform, justice, and accountability.
