Gujarat High Court

On April 11, 2025, the Gujarat High Court directed the state to respond to a petition challenging the refusal of Palanpur’s Sub-Divisional Magistrate to grant permission for a “peaceful protest” against the Waqf Amendment Bill and the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

The petitioner, convenor of the Rashtriya Muslim Adhikar Manch, sought to hold a silent rally on April 15, 2025, involving 200–300 participants marching from a designated location to the collector’s office. The initial request for permission was made for April 7 but was rescheduled to April 15 due to a delay in the decision.

The initial request for permission was made for April 7 but was rescheduled to April 15 due to a delay in the decision.

The court instructed the state to consult with local law enforcement and submit a response by April 21, 2025. The case is titled Sajidbhai Muhammedbhai Makrani v. Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Palanpur and others.

The Waqf Amendment Act, enacted on April 8, 2025, has sparked nationwide protests, particularly among Muslim organizations, who argue that it infringes upon their rights and autonomy. Additionally, the Gujarat government’s move to implement the UCC has intensified debates over personal laws and religious freedoms.

Sources