Tamil Nadu: MMK Holds Rally At Murugan Manadu Site, Demands Proportional Representation For Muslims

Manithaneya Makkal Katchi (MMK) president M H Jawahirullah on Sunday (6 July) urged proportional political representation for Muslims and the repeal of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, calling it unconstitutional and harmful to minority institutions.

At a state-level conference of the party, which is an alliance partner of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), Jawahirullah said MMK's goal was not power but to defend secularism, safeguard minority rights, and encourage inclusive governance.

The Times of India in a report stated that thousands joined a four-kilometre MMK rally in Amma Thidal, Madurai, the same place where the Hindu Munnani hosted the Murugan Manadu last month, carrying flags and placards backing Muslim rights and Waqf protection.

Jawahirullah alleged that Muslims were under-represented, stating that only four of Chennai's 200 councillors were Muslim, and called for 80 Muslim MPs in Lok Sabha to match their share in the country's population.

He appealed to parties like the DMK, Congress, and AIADMK to ensure fair Muslim representation, stating that was the core aim of the conference.

Criticising the Waqf Act amendments, he accused the BJP of using a new portal to seize Waqf properties and warned of farmer-style protests if not repealed.

Ten resolutions were passed, demanding proportional Muslim representation, repeal of the Waqf Act, and establishing a Waqf Development Corporation. A ban on EVMs and VVPATs was also proposed.

MMK also condemned Israel’s actions in Palestine and US support, urging India to cut ties with Israel and back Palestine at the UN.

MMK criticised Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s comments on removing ‘secularism’, praised the Tamil Nadu govt for opposing ‘fascist forces’, and called for Muslim identity and history to be included in school curricula.

Jawahirullah concluded that the campaign is about dignity and rightful representation for Muslims, not political power.

MMK MLA Abdul Samad pledged resistance to implementing the amended Waqf Act in its present form.

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